Northern Song Dynasty Jian Kiln Iron-Bodied Oil Spot Glazed Conical Tea Bowl with Incised Inscriptions (11th–12th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Diameter 12 cm (4.72 in/0.39 ft); Height 7 cm (2.76 in/0.23 ft). Condition and Provenance: Excellent condition, complete shape, well-preserved oil-spot glaze, clearly visible inscription on the unglazed iron body, and natural aging characteristics. Provenance: Private collection, New York, USA, long held by the same collector. Description: This Northern Song Dynasty Jian ware iron-bodied tea bowl with oil-spot glaze is a typical example of Song Dynasty tea ware. Measuring 12 cm in diameter and 7 cm in height, this bowl was designed specifically for the renowned tea ceremony culture of the Song Dynasty. The exterior is unglazed iron, decorated with ancient inscriptions, while the interior is covered with a vibrant black oil-spot glaze. The bowl features the classic Jian ware shape with a slightly constricted rim, a deep, round body, and a compact foot. Its substantial form and thick iron body reflect the practical needs of Song Dynasty tea whisking. The outer wall of the bowl displays the natural texture of Jian ware iron clay, exhibiting a deep brownish-black color with a strong granular feel. The inscriptions on the outer rim are freely arranged with ancient knife-carved lines, preserving the unique historical charm of the piece. The interior is covered with a rich black glaze, densely covered with oil-drop crystals that radiate outwards from the center, resembling twinkling stars. The rugged, unglazed exterior contrasts sharply with the crystal-clear, oil-drop interior, creating a striking artistic effect. Jian ware porcelain was highly prized in the Song Dynasty because its dark glaze accentuated the whiteness of tea foam, making it especially valuable at tea ceremonies. This bowl is unique in that it combines a rare inscribed exterior with a complete oil-drop glaze, making it both a practical Song Dynasty tea utensil and a collectible ceramic piece of significant historical and artistic value.

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