Imperial Lion Motif Sancai Gaiwan – Traditional Underglaze Craft

Essential Info

Artistic Insight

This gaiwan, named “Imperial Lion Motif Gaiwan,” features a classic chicken-heart shape and exquisite underglaze craftsmanship, capturing the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture. Made from pristine white porcelain, the gaiwan’s smooth and delicate surface is adorned with vivid “lion playing with a ball” motifs. The vibrant sancai (tri-color) palette adds a lively yet dignified touch to the design. The playful green lion, painted in shades of blue and green, paired with a yellow floral-patterned ball, symbolizes strength and auspiciousness while reflecting the regal elegance of imperial artifacts.

The chicken-heart shape ensures a snug fit between the lid and bowl, facilitating efficient brewing and pouring while highlighting the balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality. With a capacity of 175 ml, this gaiwan is perfectly suited for personal use or sharing, adding a sense of elegance and ritual to every tea session.

The “Imperial Lion Motif Gaiwan” is crafted from high-quality porcelain using the traditional underglaze technique. This intricate process requires artisans to paint directly onto the porcelain surface before applying a glaze and firing it at high temperatures. This ensures that the design becomes seamlessly integrated with the glaze, resulting in vibrant, durable colors and a smooth finish. The lion motif is lively and dynamic, with flowing lines and intricate details, demonstrating the artisans’ exceptional skill and attention to detail.

The sancai color palette—blue, green, and yellow—is harmoniously distributed across the gaiwan, blending traditional elegance with a vibrant artistic expression. Each gaiwan is hand-painted by skilled artisans, making every piece a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

The design of the “Imperial Lion Motif Gaiwan” draws inspiration from the traditional Chinese motif of “lions playing with a ball.” Lions have long symbolized strength and authority in Chinese culture, while the ball represents unity and harmony. According to legend, this motif signifies blessings for longevity, prosperity, and household peace, often appearing in imperial decorations. By incorporating this motif into the gaiwan through underglaze techniques, this design pays homage to China’s rich cultural heritage while bringing ancient auspicious meanings to the modern tea table.

The “Imperial Lion Motif Gaiwan” is more than a functional tea vessel—it is a cultural artifact that embodies artistic heritage. Its chicken-heart shape is easy to grip, while the underglaze finish ensures durability and easy cleaning, achieving the perfect balance between practicality and beauty. The vibrant sancai palette and lively lion motif make this gaiwan a striking centerpiece, whether used in a tea ceremony or displayed as part of a collection.

Whether as a gift for a loved one or a personal treasure, this gaiwan conveys a deep appreciation for the aesthetics of life and traditional culture. With this gaiwan, brew tea and admire the dynamic beauty of the lion motif; with this tea vessel, savor the profound depth of history and artistry.