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The English are famous for their teapots and tea sets, and understandably so. While they did get off to a shaky start when they first started trying to make fine porcelain ware, they soon became known for creating some of the finest and best English teapots and tea cups. Much of what is produced is made with very fine china, however one teapot that has become very famous both in England and abroad is the Brown Betty Teapot. There is much confusion regarding where the name actually came from. The teapot is glazed with a deep brown glaze, known as the Rockingham Brown glaze. While this explains the reason it is called 'Brown', no one seems to know where the term 'Betty' originated. This particular teapot was originally made from very thick red clay which made it perfect for keeping tea warm in the cold British winters. It was also said that this teapot brewed a perfect cup of tea. There are many opinions as to why this is so. Some think it is because of the large, round belly of the teapot that gives ample room for the water to mix with the tea leaves. Others say it is because the teapot does such a good job of keeping the tea warm. It could also be because of the quality of the clay used to make the pot, though the inside of the pot, unlike Chinese tea pots, is also glazed. At the time Britain was perfecting its fine china ware craftsmen also saw the need for a sturdy, family teapot that was affordable by all levels of British society, not just the wealthy upper class and nobility. During the reign of Queen Victoria, the Brown Betty became famous as it was used at court for serving tea. Thus, it naturally also became very popular at large, and given the fact that it was not the very finest china ware it was also very affordable. These teapots are still being made in England, however the quality is perhaps not as good as it used to be; either the design nor the quality and thickness of the clay used to form the pot. There are, however, many copies or replicas being made, many of which actually perform better than the original Brown Betty teapot. The most notable of these teapots are made in Japan, with very good quality ones also coming from China and Malaysia. If you want an authentic English teapot they are available. In order to verify your teapot is English made it should have the lettering, "Cauldron" on the bottom of the teapot and most come with a sticker of the Union Jack attached. They can be ordered online from various shops, and from the manufacturer themselves.
Robyn L. Wescombe currently resides in Taiwan with her husband and two children. She loves teas and is fascinated with all aspects of tea and tea accessories, including English teapots and silver tea sets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robyn_L._Wescombe
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