As a lifelong tea-drinker, I have grown to love my Japanese inspired teapot, the thousand-year-long tradition of tea ceremony it represents, and I have grown a deep appreciation for experience-centred design.
My love affair with this teapot began on my 18th birthday when my sisters gifted it to me and I have used it almost every day. It has since become one of my favourite designs and holds precious sentimentality, my teapot is something I hope to keep forever.
Image: Takakko teapot by Clara Schroeder
The ‘Takakko’ teapot and trivet design features beautiful finishes, from its crafted attention to detail, weight and warmth, the feel of the traditional cast iron material, to its ritualistic function which is an ode to its Japanese heritage (Coffee and lovers, 2020). The user is reminded of the elements of a traditional ceremony when using the pot, the aspects known as ‘Wa kei sei jaku’ (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity) call upon the user to enjoy a moment of peace whilst sipping away.
Some may say that these aspects are outdated in the modern world with take-away culture thriving. However, I am of the conviction that the Zen moments of meditation and reflection are needed now more than ever, and the ceremony acts as a reminder to ‘purify one’s mind’ from the fast-paced environment we are subjected to (Knowledge Bylanes, 2012) (Reider, 2015).
A Japanese tea ceremony is not only focused around the tea itself, but equally as importantly the social interaction of sharing a warm beverage with those around you. This sentiment is reflected by the spirit of the ceremony “ichigou-ichie” which means "treasure every encounter, because it may not come to you again" (Knowledge Bylanes, 2012). The simple act of sharing tea builds a unique connection, one which may never happen again in quite the same way. To a great extent the act of sharing a cup of tea, or perhaps coffee, is the basis of many modern societal interactions; when we meet with friends, have a job interview over a cuppa or brave wintery cold mornings by starting your day at a cafe. So I urge you to keep in mind the concept of “ichigou-ichie” and treasure these moments of connection (Knowledge Bylanes, 2012).
I must mention the detailed craftsmanship and research the teapot designers poured into this vessel of joy and comfort. The design showcases an expert level of attention to detail and dedication to creating a meditative user-experience by merging tradition with modernity. It commands respect and stands to attention with its black handle upright, but it also entices you with the friendly curve of its spout and invites you to share an experience with your loved ones.
At first glance, my teapot reflects the old traditions and formal ceremony of a Japanese tea ritual; however, as time goes on, the rituals become a friend and something to take comfort in. To some, it may just be a teapot but to me, it holds sentimental value, peace, and a promise to be by my side forever.
Works Cited:
Coffee and lovers. (2020, April 6). Coffee and tea lovers. Retrieved from Cast Iron Teapot Takakko: https://www.coffeeandtealovers.co.nz/product/4303/cast-iron-teapot--takakko-2-sizes/
Knowledge Bylanes. (2012). CHANOYU- Japanese Tea Ceremony 5(4). The Diplomatic Insight, 4-5.
Reider, N. (2015). Chanoyu: Following ceremony to a tea. Phi Kappa Phi Forum(Vol. 95, Issue 1).
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