Loewe's tea is hot in Milan

At 'Loewe Teapots,' 25 artists present their unique approach to the teapot

An image of Korean architect Cho Min-suk's teapot on display at “Loewe Teapots” in Milan (Courtesy of Loewe)

Spanish fashion house Loewe asked 25 architects, artists and designers from around the world to reimagine the traditions of teapot making, presenting each sculptural take on the humble vessel at this year's Milan Design Week.

The commissioned works are on display at the Palazzo Citterio in Milan through sunday. The six-day presentation includes a hand-made teapot by Korean architect Cho Min-suk, created in collaboration with ceramist Chae Min-woo.

“We are all familiar with a teapot and its key elements — the container with a lid, handle and spout. For Loewe, Cho has created a prototype conceived as a simplified, singular form, challenging the traditional teapot, while still fully functioning as intended,” Cho wrote of the work on the social media account of his architecture firm, Mass Studies.

“When not in use, the teapot can be placed upside down, revealing an abstract form,” he added.

Other participating artists and designers include American ceramist Dan McCarthy, Chinese architect Wang Shu, American artist Walter Price, Japanese ceramist Takayuki Sakiyama and Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola.

“Using traditional mediums, including porcelain and stoneware, and a variety of glazes and innovative textures, each artist takes a unique approach,” the foundation said on the exhibition.

The “Loewe Teapots” exhibition, curated by Jonathan Anderson, is accompanied by a collection of homeware, including teapots made by Spanish artisans.

The Loewe Foundation has been awarding craft prizes since 2016 to recognize contemporary craft artists. Korean craft artist Jeong Da-hye won the craft prize in 2022, becoming the first Korean artist to do so.