using the good silver

[futurebird]

When my parents got married like many in their generation they had a wedding registry at the little department store in their small town. Many guests bought them a silver knife, a silver fork or a silver spoon from the registry so they were able to assemble a full set of silver worth 100s of dollars bit by bit as is the quaint wedding tradition. Yet what was it for? They didn't want to sell it it had too much sentimental value.

Yet they did want to use it because it was 'too nice' to use.

Just a few years ago my brother and I talked them in to "using the good silver." I mean why not? They have raised and educated two successful children (if I say so myself, can't speak for the others) they have a nice house in the country and lots of other good things. They have lived good lives and had great careers and they are retired, together with time to do what they want! Live it up people!

Well, this meandering introduction is to ask: do any of you have pots that are "too nice" to really use much at all?

Do you use your best pots... or keep them locked away fearful of nicks and cracks?

Lastly, what would you put on your gongfu thememed wedding registry? (if I'm ever blessed with a daughter she will not get silver from me for her wedding gift but rather a very nice teapot and tray... this I already know.)

[tingjunkie]

I have one pot with real collector value because of the artist. I use this pot quite rarely just because I may want to sell it one day. It's a constant struggle between living for the moment and planning for the future.

I guess if it got a small chip, part of me would be happy because I'd start using it all the time.

[Muadeeb]

Tools are meant to be used. The few times I've walked into a Hard Rock Cafe and seen all those instruments hanging behind glass as if they were art pieces... well it just makes me sad for them.

[tingjunkie]

Sure but Yixing pots are both tools and art. Their price just appreciates if they stay in perfect condition.

[Muadeeb]

They're functional items to which we can assign artistic value if we choose. I think lots of teaware can be beautiful and certainly there are artists making things that can be admired just for their looks but if you don't use it, it's not fulfilling its main purpose.

I don't want to get into the whole "what is art?" discussion since it never ends but if you're looking for something pretty to admire from a distance, perhaps you could check out my photography website. My prints can only increase in value...

[tingjunkie]

Thanks. I'm a photographer too, but I just do it for my own enjoyment.

Like I said, I do use the pot on special occasions. Since it's one of 35 or so pots I currently own, having a pot reserved for when I have friends over or make a really good aged puerh just makes it even more special. I don't mind just looking at it on the shelf and appreciating it in the meantime.

[gingkoseto]

If I were the owner of the nice silver ware, sure I will use them. They don't ever break! What to worry about?
As for tea ware, I won't hesitate to use all of them and I don't buy very expensive ones, because I break things rather easily There are some that if I break, I would feel rather sad. But I try not to punish myself a second time for it. At least I try. Besides, with me aging, there are numerous things that I've broken or lost, so I guess I'm getting use to it

[bagua7]

...perhaps you could check out my photography website. My prints can only increase in value...

As a side note: can I provide a quick critical analysis of your work?

[Muadeeb]

As a side note: can I provide a quick critical analysis of your work?

"quick" and do not inspire a lot of confidence that I'd be getting an actual thoughtful critique, but go ahead.