Pitcher (Gongdaobei)
Definition
A small serving pitcher used in gongfu brewing to pool tea from the gaiwan or teapot before pouring into cups. Also called gongdaobei (fairness pitcher) or cha hai (sea of tea).
Why it matters
The pitcher, known in Chinese as gongdaobei or cha hai, is one of the defining tools of gongfu-style brewing. After steeping in a gaiwan or small teapot, the entire infusion is decanted into the pitcher and then distributed to individual cups. This intermediate step serves two important functions. First, decanting promptly stops the steep and prevents over-extraction in the brewing vessel. Second, pooling the tea ensures that every cup poured from the pitcher tastes identical, since the first and last drops of the infusion (which differ in strength) are mixed evenly. The name fairness pitcher reflects this equalizing role. Pitchers are typically made of porcelain or glass and sized to match the brewing vessel, usually 100 to 250 ml. Glass pitchers also let drinkers see the color and clarity of each infusion, which is part of the visual pleasure of gongfu sessions.