Man and boy sifting tea, China

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Man and boy sifting tea, China

Man and boy sifting tea, China. Date: circa 1890

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 14137213

© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography

Chest Commodity Crate Export Grade Grading Sift Sifting

EDITORS COMMENTS
Man and Boy Sifting Tea, China (circa 1890): A Glimpse into the Tea Industry's Past This evocative photograph captures the moment of meticulous tea sifting by a man and a boy in China during the late 1800s. The scene unfolds in a dimly lit room, where the warm glow of sunlight filters through the windows, casting long shadows on the wooden floor. The man, with a serious expression, expertly handles the wooden sifting machine, while the boy, with a focused gaze, attentively watches the tea leaves pass through the fine mesh. Tea, an essential commodity in China since ancient times, had gained global popularity by the late 1800s. The demand for high-quality tea led to the establishment of large-scale tea plantations and the development of sophisticated grading and sorting techniques. This photograph offers a glimpse into the intricate process of tea sifting, which was crucial in ensuring the finest tea leaves were selected for export. The wooden sifting machine, a testament to the era's technology, was used to separate tea leaves of various sizes and grades. The tea leaves were carefully poured into the machine from a chest or crate, and the smaller, finer leaves would pass through the mesh, while the larger leaves and debris were retained. This labor-intensive process required patience, skill, and precision, as each leaf was essential in creating the perfect cup of tea. The man and boy in this photograph represent the dedication and hard work that went into the tea industry during the 1890s. Their focused expressions and the intricate equipment they use serve as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of tea production in China.

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