With tea consumption in the U.S. having more than doubled since 1990, according to Bon Appetit magazine, holi-day shopping lists this year might do well to include something delectable or decorative for the tea drinker. Contrary to the stereotype of tea drinkers as stogy, pipe-smoking Anglophiles, tea has become a mainstream beverage, considered good for one’s health, conducive to social interaction and complementary to the rising popularity of Yoga and Feng Shui. An artistic twist on the trend comes in the form of whimsical teapots and tea sets, notes Peggy Boskey founder of the website Teapot Treasures .
“Taking tea is one of life’s creature comforts, a time to sit and sip alone or relax and chat with a group of friends,” says Boskey. “And nothing enhances the experience of fine-tasting tea as much as a teapot hand crafted by an artist. In my pursuit to find unique teapots for my own collection, I discovered the creations of some wonderfully talented artisans. It was then that I decided to put together a large selection of contemporary ceramic, cast iron and china teapots to delight the eye along with the palate.”
Besides teapots and tea sets, Teapot Treasures offers additional suggestions for the tea lovers on one’s holiday list:
    — Ceramic tiles designed to protect a wooden table from a hot teapot
 – Body Tea - herbal tea for the bath & eyes
 – Children’s tea sets
 ”Buyers of our one-of-a-kind teapots signed by the artist and recreations of ancient Chinese Yixing teapots don’t necessarily even drink tea,” adds Peggy Boskey. “They appreciate the fine craftsmanship and collect them as affordable works of art.”