Tea World: Discover Chinese Tea Culture and History

The Zhejiang Provincial Museum will open a new exhibition, “Tea World: A Journey Through Chinese Tea Culture,” on January 10, 2025. The exhibit focuses on two important periods in Chinese tea history: the Song and Qing dynasties. The exhibition explores the history of tea during these periods through two focused themes: "Tea in the Song Dynasty" and "Tea in the Qing Dynasty."

The exhibition features amazing artifacts, including famous works by Song Emperor Huizong, such as Poems on Mid-Autumn and Birds and Loquats. You’ll also find calligraphy by well-known figures like Su Shi, Huang Tingjian, and Cai Xiang, along with rare ceramics from the five famous Song Dynasty kilns: Ru, Guan, Ge, Ding, and Jun.

Poems on Mid-Autumn

Tea and Art: A Cultural Connection

This exhibition explores tea culture not just as a daily ritual but as a central part of Chinese art and lifestyle. Tea is connected to “The Eight Refined Arts” cherished by ancient scholars: music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, wine, flowers, and tea. Visitors can admire exquisite ceramics, historic tea-related artifacts, and even royal tribute teas from the Qing Dynasty.

The journey begins with Flower Painting by a Song Artist, an elegant depiction of nature that captures the calm and simplicity of Song-era aesthetics. Each brushstroke reflects the refined sensibilities of that time, when both tea and art were central to daily life.

Flower Painting by a Song Artist

Tea and Music: A Harmonious Pairing

Tea culture in the Song Dynasty flourished with contributions from scholars and the imperial court. The exhibit pairs the Tang Dynasty guqin (Great Sage’s Melody), a treasured zither-like instrument, with Song and Qing tribute teas. Together, they illustrate the harmony between tea and music, a timeless combination.

The Great Sage’s Melody is a rare guqin from the Tang Dynasty, treasured by the Palace Museum. Its name, inscribed in gold, along with poetic engravings, describes the beauty of its sound, evoking images of autumn rivers and moonlit nights.

The Great Sage’s Melody

Tribute Teas and Royal Elegance

The Qing Dynasty marks another peak in Chinese tea culture. This exhibit features over ten varieties of tribute teas from the Palace Museum collection, such as Longjing, Biluochun, and Ginseng Tea. These teas, stored in ornate tin and wooden containers, showcase the sophistication of tea culture during the Qing Dynasty.

Ceramics: Witnesses of Tea Culture

From the minimalist elegance of Song-era teaware to the intricate designs of Qing ceramics, tea sets reflect the aesthetics and lifestyles of their times. The exhibit includes masterpieces like the Ru Kiln’s celadon-glazed bowls, Ding Kiln’s white porcelain pieces, and Qing Emperor Yongzheng’s Doucai chicken cups.

The Song Dynasty ceramics, celebrated for their artistic achievements and unique glaze techniques, hold a special place in the history of both Chinese and global ceramics. The exhibit provides a glimpse into how teaware evolved alongside changing tea-drinking traditions.

Round Washer with Sky - blue Glaze from Ru Kiln in the Northern Song Dynasty

Blue - glazed Sunflower - shaped Mouth Bowl from the Guan Kiln of the Southern Song Dynasty

White - glazed Cup Stand from Ding Kiln in the Northern Song Dynasty

Doucai Chicken - pattern Cup from the Yongzheng Reign of the Qing Dynasty

Qing Dynasty: Global Influence

During the Qing Dynasty, tea became a global sensation, spreading from China to the rest of the world. The exhibit highlights how tea transitioned from the royal court to everyday life while maintaining its cultural importance. Special attention is given to Emperor Qianlong’s passion for tea, shown through his paintings, calligraphy, and curated collections.

This exhibition is a must-see for tea lovers and art enthusiasts alike, offering a rare chance to experience China’s rich tea culture through extraordinary artifacts and stories. Don’t miss it!