Ci Cha Ji x Li Bin: The ‘Bao Xiang’ Master Cup – A Fusion of Tang Dynasty Grandeur and Modern Living

Elevate your daily ritual with a piece that transcends time. The **Bao Xiang Master Cup (主人杯)** by renowned artist Li Bin (李斌) is not merely a vessel; it is a bridge between the opulent heritage of the Tang Dynasty and the refined sensibilities of the modern connoisseur. Whether you are starting your morning with a robust pour-over or winding down with a rare oolong, this cup transforms every sip into a moment of cultural immersion.

The Artistry of Li Bin and the Bao Xiang Motif

At the heart of this **artisan ceramic mug** lies the "Bao Xiang" (宝相) floral motif—often referred to as the "Flower of Treasures." This pattern, which reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty, symbolizes dignity, prosperity, and harmony. Artist Li Bin (李斌陶瓷) has reimagined this classic aesthetic through a meticulous "Yin-Yang" double-carving and glaze-filling technique. This process creates a stunning tactile depth, allowing the floral patterns to emerge from the porcelain with a sculptural quality that is rare in contemporary ceramics.

Heritage Craftsmanship: Longquan Celadon

Every **Tang Dynasty style cup** from the **瓷茶记 (Ci Cha Ji)** collection is a tribute to the Longquan Celadon traditional firing technique—a craft recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The glaze is a masterpiece of chemistry and nature, featuring a sophisticated blend of Plum Green (Meizi Qing) and earthy plant ash glazes. These natural ore glazes are not only visually breathtaking but are also completely food-safe, offering a smooth, jade-like texture that improves with use.

Versatility for the Modern Lifestyle

While rooted in tradition, this **宝相花咖啡杯** is designed for the versatility of 21st-century life. With a generous **400cc capacity**, it breaks the mold of traditional small tea bowls. Its substantial size makes it the perfect "Master Cup" for a variety of beverages:

Coffee Enthusiasts:** The wide 8.9cm rim is ideal for appreciating the aroma of specialty beans.

Tea Lovers:** The thick walls retain heat beautifully for grand-cru teas.

Contemporary Cool:** Its unique aesthetic makes it a sophisticated choice for even a chilled cola or sparkling water.

A Statement Piece for Any Occasion

The **大唐宝相** series is designed for those who appreciate the "Master Cup" philosophy—owning a singular, high-quality piece that represents one’s personal style. It serves as a commanding presence on an executive desk, a centerpiece in a curated home gallery, or a prestigious gift for high-end collectors. Because each **手工陶瓷杯** is entirely handcrafted, no two pieces are identical, ensuring that your cup is as unique as your own journey.

Care & Authenticity

Unique Variations:** As a fully handmade item, slight variations in glaze color and dimensions (within a few millimeters) are hallmarks of its artisanal origin.

Maintenance:** To preserve the integrity of the hand-carved details and the delicate celadon glaze, we recommend gentle hand washing with a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners to maintain the lustrous finish for generations to come.