Yixing Zisha Cha Hai – Fairness Pitcher (Gong Dao Bei)
A cha hai (also called a fairness pitcher or gong dao bei) is where you pour your brew before serving, so every cup gets the same strength and the leaves stop steeping. This one is thrown by hand from unglazed Yixing purple clay (zisha), a warm dark-brown body flecked with the coarser sandy grain the clay is known for.
Clay & finish: Unglazed Yixing zisha with a soft matte surface and the open, breathable texture the material is known for. The base is impressed with the Cha Zhi Ji brand seal. Because it is handmade, small variations in colour, shape and weight are normal.
Pouring: The gently rounded spout still releases a clean stream and breaks off without dribbling down the side. The open mouth and low centre of gravity make it easy to judge the tea's colour and empty the pitcher completely, and the ring handle stays cool enough to hold through a full gongfu tea session.
Size & capacity: Holds about 221 ml filled — a good match for a 100–150 ml gongfu teapot or gaiwan.
Care: Rinse with hot water when you switch teas, and from time to time give it a proper wash with hot water (no soap) the same way you clean a Yixing teapot used across different teas. There is no need to keep it for one type of tea.
