Dragon Gaiwan with Soucer # 96159

The San Cai Gaiwan combines a lidded tea bowl with a matching saucer, and its raised dragon relief makes the set a striking centrepiece. The lid has a tall knob for lifting, while the broad rim helps guide tea when decanting.

The gaiwan became established in the Ming period and remains a fundamental Chinese tea vessel. Its three parts traditionally represent heaven, humanity and earth, and it is used to steep leaves, drink directly or pour tea into a sharing pitcher.

This Chinese piece has a dark ceramic surface, with carved clouds, scales and dragons accented by subtle brown tones. Keep the lid and bowl clean with warm water, and dry the separate parts thoroughly after each tea session.