Teamakers & Teapots

What is a teapot?

A teapot is a vessel used to infuse tea leaves in hot water to extract flavor and aroma. Over the centuries, practically all tea-drinking cultures have created their own variation of teapots to consume this ancient beverage.

However, the various designs have gradually morphed into the two-part design we have become familiar with today – a somewhat flat cylindrical vessel to hold the water and tea leaves and a long spout to release steam and for pouring.

Teapots are made from a variety of conductive and non-conductive materials such as clay, steel, pottery and glass.

It is important to remember that while some teapots can be used to boil water, they are functionally designed to steep tea; water should be boiled separately using a kettle.

There are no hard rules in the classification of teapots. We generally just divide them according to materials and functionality, since these are the most important considerations when choosing a teapot.

Porcelain teapots

Porcelain, a form of ceramic, is a popular material for teapots meant for fine dining, particularly in five-star restaurants and hotels. Porcelain teapots have a glossy all-white finish and often feature intricate and colorful hand-painted designs. Arabia’s Moomin Tea Pot is a great example. The 70 cl teapot features a motif designed by the late Tove Jansson, a celebrated Finnish author. The motif conveys Jansson’s sense of longing and sadness following the death of her mother.

Royal Copenhagen’s Blue Fluted Half Lace Teapot is another excellent example. The porcelain teapot features the iconic blue mussel-painted pattern designed in 1775. 

Owing to the nature of porcelain, extra care must be given to porcelain teapots since they may crack if suddenly exposed to boiling water. It is thus always advisable to soak a porcelain teapot inside a warm basin of water for a minute to increase the core temperature. Only pour hot water after that.

Ceramic teapots

One of the most amazing things about glazed ceramic teapots is their ability to retain aromas and scents. However, this will only come after prolonged use. Make sure to use only a single type of tea for the teapot; otherwise, the flavor profile might be adulterated.

If the thought of buying one suddenly sounds appealing, take a look at what we have to offer. Maybe start with Kahler’s Hammershøi Tea Pot. The indigo-colored 120 cl teapot, designed by Hans-Christian Bauer, comes with a built-in screen to filter loose tea leaves from the tea. It also comes with a detachable brass handle, which comes in handy when you place it in the dishwasher.

If you prefer something more eye-catching, the Höganäs Teapot with Wooden Saucer should be on top of your list. The 1.5 L teapot has a striking red glazed finish – it will pop out anywhere you put it. The walls of the teapot are extra thick, so it can retain heat longer. It also comes with a practical wooden saucer that protects your table from stains and heat-caused discoloration. 

Stainless steel teapots

Stainless steel teapots are arguably the most popular type of teapots today. They are light, durable and look really great in modern kitchens. They also boast of a variety of attractive designs, such as the Bodum CHAMBORD Teapot. The 1.3 L teapot has a removable filter which can add dimensions to the taste of your tea. Shaped like a cup, the teapot will look great alongside cakes and pastries during afternoon tea.

Another Bodum product, the ASSAM Teapot With Steel Filter, offers a more conventional design with a surprise feature – it features the same brewing system as Bodum’s French coffee press. You’re essentially guaranteed a rich and full-bodied cuppa with this teapot.

So what are you waiting for? Explore RoyalDesign’s extensive collection of teapots and pick the perfect one for your office or home today.