Antique Painting Teacups

A Century of Use, Refined for Today

This teacup carries the quiet joy of time.

Originally made at the Dehua Dragon Kilns around a century ago, it features a softly sculpted melon-shaped relief, paired with hand-painted flowers and green leaves—lively, intimate, and unmistakably human.

Rather than preserving it behind glass, Kevin chose to return it to daily life.
The rim is finished with a traditional KOU technique, wrapping the mouth in copper to strengthen the edge and gently frame the form. The metal has begun to age naturally, adding warmth without overpowering the porcelain beneath.

This is not an object frozen in history.
It is history, continuing.

How It Feels

Joyful, Balanced, Alive

The melon relief rests naturally in the hand, offering subtle grip and rhythm as you drink. The painted florals reveal themselves gradually, never demanding attention—only rewarding it.

The copper-rimmed mouth feels reassuring against the lips, slightly warmer, slightly softer. Over time, both porcelain and metal respond to tea, touch, and air—developing a quiet harmony that can’t be rushed.

It feels celebratory without being precious.
Elegant, but meant to be used.

Why It’s Different

Heritage, Adapted for Daily Tea

• Dragon Kiln Dehua Porcelain
  Fired in traditional kilns known for warmth, density, and tactile presence.
• Hand-Sculpted Melon Relief
  Not molded—each curve shaped by hand, with natural variation.
• Hand-Painted Floral Motifs
  Expressive, relaxed brushwork typical of folk Dehua ware.
• Copper “KOU” Rim Reinforcement
  Enhances durability while framing the cup with subtle contrast.
• High Value, Not Untouchable
  Chosen to be enjoyed daily, not stored away.

Historically used to protect fragile rims or cover minor imperfections, this copper 'KOU' transforms the edge into a durable, warm frame for the porcelain.

Ideal For

• Daily Gongfu tea
• Oolong, Black Tea, Aged White Tea
• Tea drinkers who value history in use, not display
• Tables that blend old objects with modern life

Built for Continued Use

• Copper rim protects the mouth edge
• Natural aging of metal and porcelain over time
• One-of-a-kind piece with historical variation
• Gentle hand washing recommended

Taiwu Perspective

Some objects grow quieter with age.
Others grow warmer.

This cup belongs on your tea table—not because it is old, but because it is still alive.