September 18, 2021
Why do some tea cups have two handles?
When it comes to tea cups with two handles, their unique design serves a specific purpose beyond just aesthetic value. This distinctive feature actually originated in ancient China, where tea ceremony and tradition are deeply ingrained in daily life.
In Chinese tea culture, which dates back thousands of years, the host of a tea gathering typically holds the tea cup with both hands to show respect to their guests. The use of two handles on a tea cup allows for a more stable and comfortable grip, ensuring that the host can present the tea in a most respectful way without the risk of spilling.
Beyond practicality, however, the dual-handle tea cup also carries symbolic meaning. In many Eastern cultures, the act of serving tea with both hands represents the balance and harmony that is sought in all aspects of life. The two handles, working together, are seen as a representation of yin and yang, the dual forces that are believed to govern the universe.
As tea culture spread from China to other parts of the world, this design element was adopted and appreciated for its functionality and symbolism. Today, whether you're enjoying a casual cuppa or participating in a formal tea ceremony, the dual-handle tea cup is a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient beverage.
In Chinese tea culture, which dates back thousands of years, the host of a tea gathering typically holds the tea cup with both hands to show respect to their guests. The use of two handles on a tea cup allows for a more stable and comfortable grip, ensuring that the host can present the tea in a most respectful way without the risk of spilling.
Beyond practicality, however, the dual-handle tea cup also carries symbolic meaning. In many Eastern cultures, the act of serving tea with both hands represents the balance and harmony that is sought in all aspects of life. The two handles, working together, are seen as a representation of yin and yang, the dual forces that are believed to govern the universe.
As tea culture spread from China to other parts of the world, this design element was adopted and appreciated for its functionality and symbolism. Today, whether you're enjoying a casual cuppa or participating in a formal tea ceremony, the dual-handle tea cup is a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient beverage.