Jianyao teabowl
Stoneware, glaze, ‘hare’s fur’ pattern Shuiji kilns, Jianyang, Fujian Northern to Southern Song dynasties, 12th–13th century Inv. CFC.17
Fashion for tea
During the Northern Song dynasty, the fashion for tea gained popularity, promoted by a number of connoisseurs including the Song emperor Huizong, early 12th century.
Conforming to the connoisseurs’ specifications these Jianyao teabowls here are the finest. The pattern of this glaze is described as resembling hare’s fur. This evocative name has been retained throughout the centuries and represents one of the great achievements in glaze technology.
