The Chinese tea ceremony, known as gongfu cha, is a ritualized way of brewing and drinking tea that originated in China and has since spread to other parts of the world.

It involves the use of a small teapot and cups, as well as a variety of tea utensils such as a tea pitcher and tea strainer.

At the center of this ceremony is the Chinese tea tray, a small, shallow tray used to hold the tea utensils and catch any spills or drips during the preparation and serving of tea.

Chinese tea trays are typically made of wood, ceramic, or stone, and may be decorated with intricate designs or carvings.

The size and shape of the tray can vary, but it is generally small enough to fit on a table or desk.

In addition to its practical use, the Chinese tea tray is an important element of the gongfu cha ceremony, adding to the overall aesthetic and experience of the tea-drinking ritual.

The history of gongfu cha and Chinese tea trays dates back to the Tang Dynasty in China (618-907 AD), when the ceremony was originally used by scholars and aristocrats as a way to demonstrate their refinement and taste. Over time, the ceremony became increasingly popular and the tea tray evolved, with different styles and materials being used in different regions of China.

Today, gongfu cha and Chinese tea trays can be found in many parts of the world, and are enjoyed by tea enthusiasts of all backgrounds.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into the world of Chinese tea trays, exploring their history, use, and role in the gongfu cha ceremony. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to use a Chinese tea tray, and discuss the different types and styles available.

Whether you are a seasoned tea connoisseur or new to the world of gongfu cha, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Chinese tea trays.

 

What is a Chinese tea tray?

An Introduction to Gongfu tea trays

Gongfu tea trays, also known as Chinese tea trays, are a small, shallow tray used in the Chinese tea ceremony known as gongfu cha.

The purpose of the tray is to collect any excess water and tea that may spill or drip during the preparation and serving of tea.

Gongfu cha is a ritualized way of brewing and drinking tea that originated in China and has since spread to other parts of the world.

The ceremony involves the use of a small teapot and cups, as well as a variety of tea utensils such as a tea pitcher and tea strainer. The tea tray serves as a central point for all of these elements, providing a surface for the tea utensils and catching any spills or drips.

Gongfu tea trays are typically made of wood, ceramic, or stone, and may be decorated with intricate designs or carvings. The size and shape of the tray can vary, but it is generally small enough to fit on a table or desk.

How do you use a Chinese Tea Tray ?

Related: Gongfu Tea Trays: A Guide to Materials, Designs, and Use

 

The Role of the Chinese Tea Tray in Gongfu Cha

In addition to its practical use, the Chinese tea tray is an important element of the gongfu cha ceremony, adding to the overall aesthetic and experience of the tea-drinking ritual.

During the ceremony, the tea tray is placed underneath the teapot and cups to catch any spills or drips.

The tray is also used to hold the teapot, cups, and other tea utensils, such as a tea pitcher and tea strainer. This allows for a neat and organized presentation of the tea-making process.

The design and decoration of the tea tray can also play a role in the ceremony.

Some tea trays may be intricately carved or painted with beautiful designs, adding to the overall ambiance of the tea-drinking experience.

 

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Tea Trays

How do you use a Chinese tea tray?

Using a Chinese Tea Tray: A Step-by-Step Guide

To use a Chinese tea tray, follow these steps:

1. Place the tray on a flat surface, such as a table or desk.

2. Arrange the teapot, cups, and other tea utensils on the tray.

3. Fill the teapot with hot water and add the desired amount of tea leaves.

4. Allow the tea to steep for the appropriate amount of time, depending on the type of tea being brewed. This may range from a few seconds for green teas to several minutes for oolong or black teas.

5. Use a tea pitcher or tea strainer to pour the brewed tea into the cups.

6. Serve the tea to guests, using the tray to collect any spills or drips.

Related: The Best Tea Trays for Serving and Displaying Your Favorite Teas

The History of Gongfu Cha and Chinese Tea Trays

Gongfu cha has a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty in China (618-907 AD). The ceremony originally served as a way for scholars and aristocrats to demonstrate their refinement and taste, and became increasingly popular over time.

Gongfu cha involves the use of a variety of tea utensils, including the Chinese tea tray.

The tray has evolved over time, with different styles and materials being used in different regions of China.

Today, gongfu cha and Chinese tea trays can be found in many parts of the world, and are enjoyed by tea enthusiasts of all backgrounds.

 

 Related: 15 FAQs about Tea Trays: Uses, Types, and More

How Does a Gongfu Tea Tray Work?

A gongfu tea tray is a small, shallow tray used in the Chinese tea ceremony known as gongfu cha.

The purpose of the tray is to collect any excess water and tea that may spill or drip during the preparation and serving of tea.

During the gongfu cha ceremony, tea is brewed using a small teapot and served in small cups.

The tray is placed underneath the teapot and cups to catch any spills or drips. The tray is also used to hold the teapot, cups, and other tea utensils, such as a tea pitcher and tea strainer.

The gongfu tea tray is typically made of wood, ceramic, or stone, and may be decorated with intricate designs or carvings.

The size and shape of the tray can vary, but it is generally small enough to fit on a table or desk.

Gongfu tea trays, also known as Chinese tea trays, are a small, shallow tray used 

in the Chinese tea ceremony known as gongfu cha. The tray serves as a central point for the teapot, cups, and other tea utensils, and catches any spills or drips during the preparation and serving of tea.

Gongfu tea trays are typically made of wood, ceramic, or stone, and may be decorated with intricate designs or carvings.

To use a Chinese tea tray, place it on a flat surface, arrange the teapot, cups, and other tea utensils on the tray, fill the teapot with hot water and add tea leaves, allow the tea to steep for the appropriate amount of time, pour the brewed tea into the cups using a tea pitcher or tea strainer, and serve the tea to guests using the tray to collect any spills or drips.

The Chinese tea tray is an important element of the gongfu cha ceremony, adding to the overall aesthetic and experience of the tea-drinking ritual.

The ceremony has a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty in China, and has evolved over time to become a popular activity enjoyed by tea enthusiasts around the world.