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Tea Pottery  @ Siam Tea Shop – The Signature Line

All elements of the SiamTee Signature line are individually handcrafted pottery aworks of art according to my specifications, taking orientation on the elementary instruments of tea preparation. For this purpose, the Siam Tea Shop collaborates with 2 reputed German master potters with relevant specialization. While the Lower Saxon pottery master Karina Klages has had an international reputation in the field of teaware for several years, Katja Junker initially earned her spurs in general ceramics and, eventually finding a higher calling through Siam Tea Shop.

The clay typically used is a major coining factor of each of the 2 artists’ work. In addition, there there are specific individual style features that are characteristic for any artisan’s work. The goal of the Signature Tea Pottery line was to merge such artist-specific characteristics aesthetically and functionally with those of classic role models. In addition to a tendency towards simplicity in design, there is an aesthetic focus on the nature of the clay. The line therefore often works with unglazed surfaces, highlighting the color and structure of the respective clay.

In line with the aesthetic concept, the functional dimension of the elements of the signature line is based on a philosophy of simplistic perfectionism. This means that the respective function of a vessel finds a rather uncomplicated implementation with focus on smoothest possible use. This in turn harmonizes perfectly with the basic aesthetic concept of simple natural beauty.

SiamTeas Signature Teapot 200ml, light yellow clay with dark iron spots

The teapot is one of the most elementary, if not THE most elementary instrument of tea preparation. That is why it is also a core element of SiamTeas’ signature tea pottery line. Responsible for the implementation of the SiamTeas Signature Teapot is the Saarland master potter Katja Junker.

The basic design of the SiamTeas Signature Yixing teapot is based on the Yixing style, which we regard as ambiguous to the classic Chinese teapot. Therefore, I also decided in favor of the equally classic 200ml size. The teapot is made from a fine and very light, almost white clay that develops dark speckles when fired. Actually, these are iron inclusions, i. e. droplets of iron that is contained in the clay. In addition, different shades of color arise, forming a visually discreet, but nevertheless appealing stripe pattern. As the pictures on this page vividly illustrate, the perceived color of the teapot changes with the light and surroundings.

Also in functional terms, the unglazed SiamTeas Signature teapot leaves nothing to wish for. For example, the teapot is 100% drip-free. And thank to the the ergonomically shaped handle, you can easily grab, lift and move it, even in hot condition. And in order to ensure perfect functionality, the integrated ball-shaped strainer also reflects on the classic Yixing teapot. Accordingly, just like the original, our Signature  teapot is best suited for preparing black tea, oolong tea, white tea or Pu erh tea. However, you can also prepare green teas in it quite well.

But why is it unglazed?

Well, why unglazed …. First of all, it were natural, unglazed works that had initially inspired me. On the one hand, because the natural clay greatly emphasizes the connection between the soil and the tea leaves. Then, because the desirable properties of clay with tea preparation will show best this way. And thirdly, I found the unglazed vessels simply incredibly beautiful and best reflecting the simple character of tea.

Please note ! Since each of our SiamTeas Signature Shiboridashi is an individual handicraft, virtually every specimen is unique. Therefore, minor deviations in shape and capacity may occur between individual specimens.

Other elements of the SiamTeas Signature Tea Pottery Line

Besides my Signature teapot, the SiamTeas Signature tea pottery line includes the following elements in orientation at the core requirements for the casual or ritual tea preparation:

• The SiamTeas Signature Shiboridashi 100ml, unglazed, fine light clay
• SiamTeas Signature Shiboridashi Set with Tea Cup 120ml, light grey clay with white interior and spontaneous glaze
• The SiamTeas Signature Yuzamashi 250ml, unglazed, fine light clay
• The SiamTeas Signature Shiboridashi 100ml, light grey clay with white interior glaze
• SiamTeas Signature Tea Cup 70ml, light grey clay with white interior glaze

Teapot, shibo and yuzamashi by Katja Junker are also available as an ensemble, of course coming with a price advantage:

• The SiamTeas Signature Tea Pottery Ensemble