Tona Lin

These two pieces are tea sets based on the culture of southern Fujian, and while retaining its original function, the visual cultural elements of southern Fujian have been integrated into the product through in-depth research. Inspired by the unique architecture of southern Fujian, the swallowtail ridge, the tea set is inspired by the homesick of people who leave the hometown.

The concept of the tea set is inspired by swallows and shows the ritual of guest welcome and leave-taking in tea making. Sallow represents the homesickness of people from Southern Fujian and the welcome and blessing to users. Many guests who from outland and overseas visit their hometowns. There is unique architecture called swallow tail ridge, the concept of ‘swallowtail returning to the ridge’ is implying the swallow (offspring) will back to its hometown whatever how far.

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The tray uses dark red, moderate weight Burma padauk and is suitable to use in the home. This type of wood has a unique aroma and water ripples texture that make processing more interesting. The redwood is related to the red bricks of southern Fujian architecture and swallow. The water ripples texture could add more feeling when having water. Moreover, there is a place for pouring water, the water that is poured on will flow in a circular pattern to the water storage area. This represents the concept of ‘back’ and highlighter the theme of “go and back”. Heat-tempered resin on the water conductive path will change from gold to red when hot water past. This represents the blessing to guests and the homesickness of Southern Fujian.

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The material of the tea tureen is white porcelain, it could clearly show the colour of brewing tea. The ceramic does not leave any residual smell after washing, so it is suitable for brewing different types of tea. The tea tureen body is more than the lid, it gives a space to hold and avoid scalding. The lid design could isolate the tea crapes when pouring tea. The top of the lid is cured and simulates the tail of a swallow and convent for the user to press and hold. The bottom plate is reduced by a piece in imitation of the shape of a swallow's tail while maintaining the water it holds. The surface colour was inspired by the swallow, decorate with black and red glaze.

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