The White Set

Glazed in creamy white celadon, The White Set is perhaps the best introduction to the skill of master Taiwanese ceramicist Xu De Jia. Five pieces make up The White Set: a hand-crafted teapot, a server, two "Square Cups" and a celadon tea tray. We selected each piece not only for its innate aesthetics but also by how well they look and function together.

At the center of the set is the hand-shaped and glazed Celadon Teapot. Beginning from a wider base, the teapot gradually tapers upwards. Both spout and the handle are clean-lined and modern, yet the pot has the bearing of both its Chinese and Taiwanese heritage.

We call the accompanying cups our "Square Cups". But while the shape is loosely square, the detail is complex: eight sides form the walls of each cup. The shape of each cup echoes the patterns used in Moroccan architecture and design. The two cups hold perfectly the tea brewed in the teapot.

The server and the tea tray serve as a contrast to the patterns and forms of the cup and tea pot. The server is simple, round and pours wonderfully - while the tray is a perfectly shaped rectangle.

With use, the creamy white glaze will patina and the web of crazing on each piece will deepen in color. The result will give each piece complexity and a patina that speaks of age beyond its years.