The “art of tea,” the famous culture of brewing tea, is fundamental in China. Tea is compared to personality. It has a mood and a fragrance. It sets a tone, pleasant and lasting.
We think of copper as a one-toned metal, but with some heat and creativity, this orange-hued metal becomes multicolored. Meet the iridescent-colored copper collection of Wuxuantu Studio, a set for enjoying the art of drinking tea through the senses and their inspiring designs.
tones of copper and tea fragrance
The art of Tea
The “art of tea,” the famous culture of brewing tea, is fundamental in China. Tea is compared to personality. It has a mood and a fragrance, and it sets a tone, pleasant and lasting. Chinese tea culture has a practical, functional side, where objects need to meet specific needs. A teapot that pours precisely, a cup that is the correct size. But there’s also the other side, the romantic, emotional aspect of its practice.
Wuxuantu Studio designs and creates these objects to complement these two sides. Their proposals are innovative in their technology, yet based on traditional Chinese aesthetics. The result is a colorful collection of copperware for preparing tea. Wang Shan, one of the founders of the studio, thinks the cultural connotation behind traditional Chinese utensils is essential and gives it meaning.
Copper is one of the most colorful metals in nature, and its color changes are fascinating. The color collision happening through its processing is so satisfying to watch. The studio focuses on the traditional and modern technology of casting, sheet metal, electroplating, precision work, corrosion, and cold heat treatment of the copper surface. They explore the endless possibilities of copper surface coloring and the different effects that can result from it. When pouring the water into the teapot and as the fragrance of tea releases, the combination of copper and tea makes the flavors bloom differently.
Making tea is the perfect opportunity to slow down, and learn patience while perceiving and smelling the fragrance of tea. Also, to be mindful, appreciate the moment, and enjoy it while holding up the cup with both hands. It’s learning to appreciate how tea brews in different shades.
Teas by season
Rooted in the theory of the seasons in Chinese medicine, there are spring, summer, fall, and winter teas. Yellow and white teas are good for spring. Green and flower teas are better suited for the summer. Oolong tea is best for Autumn, while red and black teas, on the other hand, warm the body in the coldest season, winter.
This collection is as beautiful as the practice they’re made for; it explores the functional forms needed for preparing a soothing tea and the emotions the colors provoke. Great design is a perfect way to enjoy a hot cup of Chinese tea.
A version of this article appears in print, in Issue 0 of Álula Magazine with the headline: “Teas and tones.”
