An ordinary cup of tea is gone before you've properly started. This Cardo holds four hundred millilitres — nearly double — and that's exactly why I keep recommending it to people who say they always have to top up too soon.

The stainless steel filter is included and finely lasered, with a very open perforation. That sounds like a detail and isn't one: the finer the holes, the better the water moves around the leaf, and the more of the tea ends up in your mug. So you can brew loose leaf in it, no ball or bag needed.

New Bone China is lighter and thinner than ordinary porcelain, which matters at this height: full, it still sits comfortably in the hand. And it takes both the dishwasher and the microwave, so a cooled-off last third doesn't have to go down the sink.

The Cardo comes in two designs. If you have a preference, tell us with your order — we'll take it into account as long as stock allows.

New Bone China. Capacity 0.4 litres. Height 15 cm, diameter 8.8 cm. Stainless steel filter included. Dishwasher and microwave safe.