Lotus Throne Teacup

Cup shape: Zen Cup

The Zen Cup is a unique tea cup design inspired by the tranquility and peace of Zen Buddhism. Its shape is simple with smooth lines, typically featuring a wide and stable base that symbolizes steadiness and inner calm. Using a Zen Cup for drinking tea is not just a sensory pleasure, but also a spiritual practice, helping the user achieve a state of tranquility and focus.

Cup design: Lotus

The lotus design symbolizes purity, nobility, and beauty. In Chinese culture, the lotus grows out of the mud yet remains unstained, representing integrity and moral excellence. It also symbolizes harmony and peace, often conveying good wishes. The elegant form and fresh colors of the lotus make it a popular motif on teaware and ceramics, adding visual appeal and deep cultural significance.

Cup making technique: Cloisonne Porcelain

Copper Wire Cloisonne, also known as "Cloisonne" or "Inlaid Cloisonne," is a traditional Chinese metalcraft. Soft, flat copper wires are bent and soldered onto a copper base in intricate patterns. Enamel glazes are then filled into these patterns and fired, creating ornate objects. It is recognized as a prestigious Chinese art form and holds national intangible cultural heritage status

MAKING PROCESS

• Preparing the Base: The porcelain base is prepared and shaped according to the desired form, typically using molds or wheel throwing techniques.

• Applying Metal Strips: Thin strips of copper or silver are carefully bent and affixed to the porcelain surface using a special adhesive. These strips outline the design and create compartments (cloisons) that will hold the enamel.

• Filling with Enamel: Colored enamel paste, made from powdered glass and pigments, is carefully applied into each cloison compartment. Multiple layers of enamel may be applied to achieve the desired color intensity and depth.

• Firing: The piece is fired in a kiln at high temperatures, typically around 800-900°C. During firing, the enamel melts and fuses with the metal strips and porcelain base, forming a smooth and glossy surface.

• Polishing and Finishing: After firing, the cloisonné piece is carefully polished to remove any imperfections and to enhance the shine of the enamel surface. Additional decorative elements, such as gilding or metal fittings, may be added at this stage.