A "tea vessel tray," anciently called a "tea boat" or "tea basin," is recorded in classics as a plate-shaped utensil placed under a tea cup to catch excess water, keeping the tea table dry.
Tin, valued for its excellent properties, has long been a superior material for making tea ware, wine vessels, and tea caddies. Tin tea vessel trays stand out as a refined blend of functionality and aesthetics in this time-honored tradition.
Through history, tin tea vessel trays evolved across dynasties. During the Ming and Qing dynasties in particular, as tea culture flourished, tin craftsmanship advanced, leading to more diverse shapes and intricate patterns. These trays became common in literati tea ceremonies, embodying the prosperity of traditional tea culture with their dual value of utility and beauty.
Though often in the background, a tea vessel tray is indispensable on a tea table. It not only keeps the table clean but also carries the artistic mood of tea rituals. The warm texture of pure tin, hand-carved details, and vintage luster breathe new life into this ancient utensil, creating a world of its own on modern tea tables—one that holds the warmth of time and the elegance of humanities.
About the Artisan: Chi Huiguang ("Yixiu")
A dedicated disciple of master craftsman Lai Qingguo, Chi Huiguang (known by his artistic name "Yixiu") has focused on mastering and refining his craft since 2012. As a product development designer under Master Lai, he has deeply absorbed the essence of traditional handcrafted tin art.
Over a decade, Yixiu has approached tin craftsmanship with unwavering passion, constantly challenging himself and innovating. He spares no effort in repeated experiments, pouring more emotion into each creation.
Inspired by the rhythm of hammering and carving, he has developed a distinctive "Yixiu style"—simple, understated, and infused with zen. His works blend retro tin aesthetics with innovative multi-material techniques (combining tin with wood, copper, or porcelain).
1. Seamless Tea Vessel Tray, Begonia Shape – Gentle and Elegant
• Origin: Gejiu, Yunnan
• Material: Pure tin
• Dimensions: 220mm (length) × 170mm (width) × 35mm (height)
• Water capacity: Approximately 550ml
• Craftsmanship: Handmade, vintage carved
With smooth, flowing lines, it feels warm to the touch, bearing the mellow luster of aged time.
"Fish swim in shadow, dwelling in a flowered home"
Delicate fish dart among stone shadows, accompanied by budding flowers. The balanced composition unfolds a tranquil scene of peace and far-reaching serenity.
"Warm, vintage, and naturally质朴"
A textured cloth-like base adds a rustic touch. Meticulous hammering by Master Yixiu creates subtle undulations in touch and light.
"Tranquility without clutter"
Its water-storing function blends seamlessly into the serene design, letting focus stay on peace rather than mess—calming the mind during tea.
2. Orchid-like Tea Vessel Tray
"Octagonal shape – lightweight and lively"
• Origin: Gejiu, Yunnan
• Material: Pure tin
• Dimensions: 132mm (width) × 35mm (height) × 53mm (side length)
• Water capacity: Approximately 300ml
• Craftsmanship: Handmade, vintage carved
Unassuming and space-saving, it rests gracefully anywhere on the tea table.
The octagonal outline forms an elegant frame, with a lightweight, lively stance that fits effortlessly into any corner of the tea setting.
"Whispers like orchids – graceful and vivid"
Master Yixiu carves with the precision of a brush, using delicate openwork to capture the essence of Qi Baishi’s "Whispers like Orchids."
Waving orchid leaves, as if fresh with morning dew, infuse the tea table with vitality and artistic charm.
Its practical beauty lies in being lightweight and flexible, while its compact elegance makes it an art piece integrated into daily life.
3. Cave-like Tea Vessel Tray
"Square with mallow-shaped rim – balanced and舒展"
• Origin: Gejiu, Yunnan
• Material: Pure tin
• Dimensions: 263mm (length) × 188mm (width) × 42mm (height)
• Water capacity: Approximately 1100ml
• Craftsmanship: Handmade, vintage carved
The square shape with a mallow rim features balanced proportions and soft, rounded corners, exuding classical elegance.
"Carving as painting – layered peaks and valleys"
Master Yixiu channels focus into carving, treating tin as paper. Dry and weathered stones interlock, their layered textures resembling nature’s own craftsmanship—evoking rolling hills, winding valleys, and deep caves within this small space.
Its grandeur earns it the title of "a blessed cave" on the tea table. With a large water capacity, it easily meets daily tea needs, standing as a practical yet aesthetically striking piece.
"Flowing Warmth – Timeless in Smallness"
From a practical tool on ancient tea tables to a cherished item in modern tea lovers’ collections, the evolution of the tea vessel tray mirrors the enduring beauty of tea culture. These handcrafted tin trays transcend their function: as tea steam rises, the eye lingers on their details, and the hand feels their texture.
They hold not just the weight of a teapot, but the tranquility of the moment; they cradle not just clear tea, but the human warmth of handcraft, woven into daily life.
Visit www.txs-tea.com to bring home these masterpieces by Yixiu, and let them grace your tea table with timeless charm.