Teacup

A small black and green cup with no handle.

A teacup is a small cup typically used for drinking tea. It may be with or without a handle, generally a small one that may be grasped with the thumb and one or two fingers. Teacups are often part of a tea set, which includes a teapot, creamer, and sugar bowl.

A five-piece tea service with chrysanthemum design.

Design and Materials

Teacups are traditionally made from porcelain or bone china, but they can also be made from glass, metal, or clay. The design of a teacup can vary significantly, with some featuring intricate patterns and others being plain. The size of a teacup is generally smaller than a coffee cup, as tea is often consumed in smaller quantities.

Handle

The handle of a teacup is a distinctive feature that differentiates it from other types of cups. The handle is designed to be held with the thumb and one or two fingers, allowing the drinker to sip the tea comfortably without burning their fingers.

Saucer

Teacups are often accompanied by a saucer, a small plate that sits under the cup. The saucer serves both a practical and aesthetic purpose, catching any drips and providing a place to rest the spoon.

Cultural Variations

Teacups vary widely across different cultures, reflecting the diverse traditions of tea drinking around the world.

Chinese Teacups

In China, teacups are often smaller and handleless, designed to be held in the palm of the hand. Chinese teacups are typically used in gongfu tea ceremony, where the focus is on savoring the aroma and flavor of the tea.

British Teacups

In the United Kingdom, teacups are usually larger and come with a handle. British teacups are often part of a formal tea set used during afternoon tea, a social event that involves drinking tea and eating light refreshments.

Japanese Teacups

In Japan, teacups, known as yunomi, are also handleless and are used for everyday tea drinking. Japanese teacups are often made from ceramic and feature simple, elegant designs.

Modern Usage

Today, teacups are used both for practical purposes and as decorative items. Collectors often seek out antique teacups, which can be valuable due to their age, rarity, and craftsmanship.

Related Pages

• Tea set
• Teapot
• Afternoon tea
• Porcelain
• Bone china