A tea boat (also known as a tea holder) is a common tea utensil, named for its shape which often resembles a lotus leaf edge. Its purpose is to measure the appropriate amount of tea leaves, and it is also commonly used for appreciating the dry leaves. Taking a moment to admire the leaves in the tea boat before brewing adds a special touch of enjoyment to the experience.
When taking tea from a canister, a tea scoop is generally used. Sometimes people place the leaves directly from the scoop into the teapot, but others prefer to transfer them into a tea boat first. This not only allows for a more accurate measurement of the tea leaves, but also provides a closer look at them. For tea enthusiasts who love appreciating tea leaves, a tea boat is an absolute must-have tool. Once you are done admiring the leaves and have determined the desired amount, you can use a tea needle or tea spoon to gently sweep the leaves into the teapot.
Tea boats are commonly made of pottery, wood, and porcelain, with porcelain being the most frequent choice. Some exquisitely crafted tea boats not only feature lotus leaf edges but are also hand-painted with delicate patterns, making them both beautiful and delightful to use.