Discover the ancient assassin’s teapot with its magical dual-chamber design
Its ingenious design allows for pouring two different liquids, making it a fascinating historical artefact and a fun party trick.
The assassin’s teapot: a Ming dynasty trickster’s tool. Photo: Handout
Teapots are not just for pouring tea; some have surprising features that can perform tricks. One fascinating example is the “two-heart pot”, also known as the “assassin’s teapot”.
The exact origins of the teapot are shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure. It is generally believed to have been invented during the Ming dynasty in China, a period when drinking tea became an essential part of Chinese culture. People paid particular attention to how it was prepared, inventing new ways to enhance the tea-drinking experience. This was also the time when the art of the tea ceremony, called cha dao, became popular.
The assassin’s teapot most likely came about as a way to ensure that the tea’s flavour and aroma were fully infused in the hot water. Its two chambers help the tea leaves steep slowly and keep their flavour.
What makes it unique?
This teapot’s design is truly ingenious. It features two separate chambers, allowing you to hold and pour two different liquids from the same pot. While there is no documented evidence of their use by an assassin, it is easy to see how one could exploit this teapot’s unique design by adding poison to one chamber and serving a drink that looks normal to an unsuspecting victim. Meanwhile, the assassin could enjoy a safe drink from the other chamber and escape quickly.
The science behind it
The teapot is a cleverly designed vessel that uses air pressure and separate chambers to pour different liquids selectively. The dual chambers inside hold different liquids. Each chamber has its own vent hole (see graphic).
By strategically covering or uncovering the vent holes, the pourer can control which chamber releases liquid, making it appear as if the teapot is magically switching between drinks. This allows an assassin to do their dirty work without being caught.
A fun idea
This clever design of the assassin’s teapot shows how intelligent and creative ancient artisans were.
However, instead of dwelling on its potential for sneaky tricks, why not use it to surprise your friends with different drinks? Imagine serving them tea from one chamber and milk from the other – it is a great way to give your guests an unexpected treat.
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