Clay Tea Pitcher, Gong Dao Bei / Cha Hai ‘Sapiens’ 200ml

Crafted from rock clay (lao yan ni) and fired in a traditional wood oven at 1300-1350ºC, our ceramic tea pitcher is a masterpiece from the ‘sapiens’ teaware collection by the Qing studio in Jingdezhen. Serve tea with elegance using this exquisite pitcher and capture your tea moments in stunning photos to share on social media.

Visit this page to see our complete Sapiens teaware collection

What is a cha hai / gong dao bei?

A cha hai (also known as 'gong dao bei') is a vessel where brewed tea is poured when using the gongfu tea steeping method. It typically is made from glass, porcelain, or other types of ceramic materials, and is smaller than regular pitchers, sized to fit the tea from a gaiwan or gongfu teapot.

When pouring tea directly from a teapot into four cups, the last cup will have a stronger taste due to longer leaf contact with water. Pre-pouring into a cha hai ensures consistent flavour distribution, which is particularly important when tasting tea together with friends. Even in solo sessions, a cha hai serve a practical purpose. Gongfu tea cups are smaller than teapots, and using a cha hai allows you to completely empty the teapot to avoid over-steeping.