Product Details

Description

Hammered Finish Tin Cup Holder — A Legacy of Craftsmanship

This cup holder (杯托) is crafted through the ancient art of Laiwu tin sculpture (萊蕪錫雕) — a traditional Chinese metalworking craft that originated in 1676 during the Qing Dynasty. During the Qianlong era, the craft reached its peak and was designated as a tribute to the imperial court. In 2008, Laiwu tin sculpture was inscribed on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of China.

The Material — 99.9% Pure Tin

Laiwu tin sculpture uses tin with a purity of 99.9% , without any additives, preserving the natural properties of tin as a green metal. The finished piece is “silver in color, mirror-bright in finish, and bell-clear in sound” — a standard that has remained unchanged for over three hundred years.

The Hammered Finish — A Signature of the Maker’s Hand

The distinctive hammered surface is achieved through tens of thousands of carefully placed strikes, each one a deliberate act of the artisan’s hand. The overlapping hammer marks — known as “hammer grain” (錘目紋) — create a subtle play of light and shadow across the surface, adding depth and texture to the metal. No two pieces are exactly alike, as the hammered pattern is as unique as a fingerprint. This aesthetic is known as “hammer marks as beauty” (錘痕即美) — a philosophy that celebrates the visible traces of the artisan’s work.

The Craft — Twelve Essential Steps

The creation of a Laiwu tin sculpture involves a highly complex process of twelve essential steps: design, material melting, sheet making, cutting, trimming, rough shaping, welding, filing, modeling, spinning, engraving, and fine polishing. The carving techniques draw from wood carving and stone carving, while also incorporating the unique “pull welding” (拉焊) and “stack welding” (堆焊) techniques developed specifically for metal. The surface polish can reach up to level 10 or higher.

The Design — Large Size for Versatile Use

With a diameter of 13 cm, this large-size cup holder is designed to accommodate most traditional tea cups, gaiwan, and small teapots. The slightly concave center gently cradles the cup, providing stability and grace. The hammered texture not only adds visual interest but also provides a subtle grip that prevents the cup from sliding.

The Function — An Essential Tea Ceremony Accessory

The cup holder (杯托) is a small but essential accessory in the Gongfu tea ceremony. Placed beneath each tea cup, it protects the tea table from heat and moisture, catches drips or spills, and elevates the cup slightly for easier handling.

Why This Piece Matters:

• 100% handmade — shaped by tens of thousands of hammer strikes

• 99.9% pure tin — the finest material, with a natural luster that deepens with use

• National intangible cultural heritage — a piece of living Chinese craft history

• Unique texture — the hammered finish gives each piece a one-of-a-kind character

• Large size — 13 cm diameter fits most teacups and gaiwan

• Functional art — as practical as it is beautiful, perfect for daily tea practice