Zodiac Series – The 12 Animals of Chinese Astrology: Meaning, Glaze Magic & Gong Fu Harmony

Every Chinese New Year brings a new animal energy into our lives. The 12 zodiac signs (Shēngxiào 生肖) are more than just horoscopes – they represent deep personality traits, life cycles, and spiritual qualities that have guided people for over 2,000 years.

Our new Jun Porcelain Zodiac Series brings these ancient symbols to life in one of the rarest and most magical ceramics in Chinese history: Jun ware.

Born in the kilns of Jingdezhen, Jun porcelain is famous for its unpredictable, living glaze – colors that shift from deep opalescent blues and purples to copper-red flashes, with fine cracks (crazing) that deepen over time. No artist can ever make two pieces exactly the same. Each firing is a conversation between fire, clay, and time.

In this series, each of the 12 zodiac animals is handcrafted as a small, high-fired treasure – a gaiwan, teacup, or mini set – carrying the essence of its animal in glaze and form.

The Twelve Animals – Their Energy & Meaning

Rat (Shǔ 鼠) – cleverness, resourcefulness, quick adaptability The first sign, the Rat is smart, fast-thinking, and always finds a way. The glaze swirls in sharp grays and silver-blues with maze-like cracks – a quiet tribute to clever paths and hidden opportunities.

Ox (Niú 牛) – diligence, reliability, quiet endurance Patient and strong, the Ox builds slowly but surely. Deep chestnut, amber, and iron-red tones with steady cracks like fertile furrows – a grounded companion for steady rituals and long-term focus.

Tiger (Hǔ 虎) – courage, independence, magnetic power Bold and fearless, the Tiger commands respect. Copper flashes and midnight blues leap across the surface, with deep cracks like battle scars – a protector for those who walk with fearless grace.

Rabbit (Tù 兔) – gentleness, intuition, quiet elegance Sensitive and perceptive, the Rabbit moves softly. Soft lunar whites and jade greens flow like moonlight, with delicate silver-thread cracks – perfect for introspective, peaceful tea moments.

Dragon (Lóng 龙) – power, strength, good fortune The most revered animal – ruler of skies and bringer of rain. Imperial reds, electric blues, and golden sparks swirl with storm-like cracks – a talisman of ambition, courage, and prosperity.

Snake (Shé 蛇) – wisdom, grace, transformation Deeply intuitive and elegant, the Snake sheds old skins for renewal. Emerald greens, indigo veins, and smooth sinuous cracks glide like a silent river – for those who embrace change with calm insight.

Horse (Mǎ 马) – energy, freedom, passion Swift, independent, and full of life – especially fitting for 2026, the Fire Horse year. Fiery reds, warm ambers, and copper sparks gallop across the glaze with wind-swept cracks – pure forward momentum.

Goat (Yáng 羊) – creativity, gentleness, artistic sensitivity Imaginative and kind, the Goat sees beauty everywhere. Milky whites, pale lavenders, and moss greens bloom with web-like cracks like brush strokes – for dreamers and gentle souls.

Monkey (Hóu 猴) – cleverness, playfulness, boundless curiosity Quick-witted and joyful, the Monkey loves discovery. Bright copper sparks, mischievous reds, and swirling golds dance with bold, irregular cracks – for those who find fun in every surprise.

Rooster (Jī 鸡) – confidence, precision, proud honesty Upright, observant, and proud, the Rooster rises early. Sharp metallic reds, deep bronzes, and dawn golds form clean, assertive cracks like ruffled feathers – for clear purpose and truthful living.

Dog (Gǒu 狗) – loyalty, protection, sincere warmth Faithful and warm-hearted, the Dog stands by those he loves. Honest earth reds, warm ochres, and browns with steady paw-print cracks – a comforting, reliable companion.

Pig (Zhū 猪) – abundance, kindness, joyful contentment Generous and happy, the Pig celebrates life’s pleasures. Rich rose pinks, golden ambers, and creams with soft, rounded cracks like ripples of laughter – for sharing sweetness and simple joy.

The Magic of Jun Glaze

Jun porcelain is not controlled – it is alive. Fired at 1300°C, the glaze reacts to fire, ash, and kiln atmosphere in ways no one can predict. Colors bloom and shift. Cracks deepen with time and use. Each piece evolves – just like the zodiac energies it carries.

Every animal in this series is a one-of-a-kind creation. No two are ever the same.

How to use your Zodiac Jun piece in Gong Fu Cha

• Use it as a gaiwan or teacup for short, mindful steeps.
• Pair your animal with a tea that matches its energy (e.g., fiery Dragon with bold Phoenix Dan Cong, calm Rabbit with soft jasmine tea).
• Let the glaze change with each session – a living reminder that every steep is unique, just like every year.

A meaningful companion for your tea practice

Whether it’s your own zodiac year, a gift for someone special, or simply a piece that speaks to your soul – the Jun Porcelain Zodiac Series brings ancient symbolism and modern craftsmanship into your daily ritual.

Limited production – once an animal is sold out, the next batch will be completely different due to the nature of Jun glaze.

Choose your zodiac animal or start collecting them all. A small piece of celestial heritage – handcrafted in Jingdezhen, high-fired, lead-free, and food-safe.

Which animal calls to you? Tell us in the comments – we’d love to hear!

Which animal speaks to you? Explore the full Jun Porcelain Zodiac Series and find your piece → Shop now: → [Shop Zodiac Animals & Sets]

May your tea moments be filled with harmony, beauty, and a little magic.