Little Foot Cup

Perched on its narrow base as if on tiptoe, this cup's profile, tapering upward in a beautiful logarithmic curve, it matched by the equally graceful gradient of its glaze, fading from a deep teal to become almost transparent just below the brown rim. The eggshell-like interior, in a brilliant porcelain white, provides the perfect contrast, and its moderate size makes it a pleasure to use, no matter one's hand size. But don't be concerned about its balance: the addition of tea will keep it preternaturally poised upright, drawing the eye amongst all other teaware.

It does, however, have a companion in the Big Button Gaiwan, for a sleek, modern gongfu cha set.