[Nigel]
> In a universal quest for tea and thirst for knowledge - or vice versa -
> note that the coloquial Turkish name for the traditional tea glass is
> "ince beli" meaning slender waist. Standing on a traditional shiny
> metal saucer it shows off the color of Turkish tea very well - a color
> that they say should ideally be that of rabbit's blood though I have
> not personally made the comparison.

Hi Nigel,

An appropriate name for the glasses. They appear in
six packs at our local Arab grocers -- that is, in our
local Arab neighborhood -- for under a dollar each
glass. I use them as a receiving vessel -- sharing
vessel, if you will -- since they are the perfect size,
and with a little practice, do not spill a drop. I also
use them for red teas of all sorts since they are
between the size of a traditional western cup and
a Chinese style Gung-fu cup. Delightful to hold
in the hand.

I should say here that those who've watched me
pour and slosh tea all over the place trying to fill
those little gung-fu cups saw my opening act. It's
all under control now.

A little two or three ounce Gung Fu pot or gaiwan,
a little Turkish ince beli, a couple little cups, and
you're set. Personally, I love the opportunity to
mess with styles, and the ince beli contributes
greatly to my Gung Fu tea.

I use "GF" loosely, I know, I know.

BTW, no little silver saucers for me.

Michael