A Jian Zhan teacup is more than just a vessel; it's a piece of art, born from the fire of the kiln.Each piece is unique, celebrated for its deep, unpredictable glazes and rustic elegance.
Proper care will not only preserve its beauty but also allow it to evolve,developing a richer character and a soft, inner glow over time.
This journey of nurturing your cup is as rewarding as using it. Here’s how you can help your Jian Zhan thrive for generations.
1. The First Use: A Gentle Start
Before you enjoy your first sip, a simple preparation is key.
Rinse: Clean your new cup with lukewarm water and a soft sponge to remove any residual dust.
Boil: Submerge the cup in a pot of distilled or purified water (tap water can cause mineral stains).Gently bring to a boil and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This process "opens" the pores of the glaze and sanitizes the cup.Let it cool naturally and dry it with a soft cloth.
Season: For the first use, brew a strong tea and let it sit in the cup for a few hours, or simply enjoy a cup.This initial exposure begins the "seasoning" process, allowing the tea to seep into the glaze.
2. Daily Care: Simple Habits
The daily ritual of use is where the relationship with your cup deepens.
Clean Immediately: After use, rinse your cup thoroughly with clean water. Never use detergent or soap,as it will strip away the developing tea patina and can leave a chemical residue.
Dry Gently: Wipe the cup inside and out with a soft, clean tea towel. Avoid abrasive scouring.The crystalline glazes (like Hare's Fur or Oil Spot) are delicate and can be scratched.
3. Deep Cleaning: Removing Stubborn Stains
If tea stains build up, don't worry. Harsh chemicals and scrubbers are not the answer.
Toothpaste: Apply a small amount of white toothpaste to a soft toothbrush and gently scrub the stained area. Rinse thoroughly.
Baking Soda: Soak the cup in a mixture of warm water and baking soda for a few hours.The stains will soften and can be wiped away easily.
Re-boil: As a last resort, you can re-boil the cup in pure water to loosen stubborn residue.
Critical Note: Never use steel wool or sharp scrapers. They will permanently damage the glaze.
4. Storage: Keep it Safe
When not in use, store your Jian Zhan properly.
Ensure it is Completely Dry before storing to prevent mildew.
Wrap it Softly in a cloth or unbleached cotton paper and place it in its box or a stable cabinet.
Avoid Knocks and keep it separated from other hard objects.
Store in a dry, ventilated place away from direct sunlight.
5. Key Don'ts: What to Avoid
No Microwave: The metallic compounds in the glaze can cause cracking.
No Dishwasher: The harsh detergents and high-pressure water will ruin the patina and can damage the cup.
No Shortcuts: Forcing a patina by leaving tea to sit for days only creates unhygienic, crusty stains, not a beautiful luster.True beauty develops naturally with consistent, gentle care.
Embrace its Character: Not every Jian Zhan will develop a rainbow "iridescence."Some will simply deepen to a warmer, darker hue, which is equally beautiful.
Final Thought：
Caring for a Jian Zhan is a practice in mindfulness. It’s a slow, rewarding dialogue between you and the object.
Treat it with respect, and it will reward you with a unique beauty that tells the story of every cup of tea you've shared together.
