A Brief History of the World of Tea Kettles

I have been exploring the history of tea kettles. As you may have read on my site, I have been known to use the microwave to boil water. So this exploration was an eye-opener for me.

Me not use a microwave...I have to think about that one for awhile.

Kettles most likely have their origin steeped in a variety of cultures and traditions.

They were crafted to withstand the heat of an open fire.

They also were designed simply to boil water for a great many purposes.

This led to a sturdy design using a strong metal such as cast iron or bronze or other metals.

They could be bent to the shape wanted.

Chinese Culture and Traditions

• The brewing of tea can be dated back to the reign of the Song Dynasty between 960 and 1279 A.D.

  This is when open pots were used to boil water and steep the leaves.

• The few designs of these kettles that existed were most likely transported by ship to Europe. This occurred during the seventeenth century.

  This was most likely as demand for exotic spices grew.

Japanese Culture and Traditions

• The kettle can be dated back to the Kamakura Period between 1185 A.D. and 1333 A.D. During this time period, they were used to boil water for the purpose of cooking, bathing and more.
• During the Muromachi Period between 1333 A.D. and 1573 A.D., the drinking of tea evolved. It went from one of medicinal purposes to one of pleasure.

  Particularly during the sixteenth century, the Japanese began to perform tea ceremonies in greater frequency. They also included this activity as a social game referred to as “Tocha”.

  This new trend led to a demand for something specifically created for the purpose of boiling water for this popular beverage.

• During the Edo Period between 1600 and 1868 A.D., the kettle evolved. This is also when designs began to include variations.

  The traditional style remained the most popular one. The pots were generally round with a rim encircling the lower portion of the pot.

Available Styles Today

Who would have imagined that history would evolve in such a way that we have so many choices in a kettle. Just look at the variety available:

Tea Kettles

1. Electric

2. Copper

3. Iron

4. Novelty - such as a "cow tea kettle".

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