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Jian ware (also known as Jian Zhan or Tian Mu Porcelain) is Chinese black porcelain originating from Jianyang, Fujian province.
In the Song Dynasty's "The Record of Tea" it was said about Jian Zhan:
"Tea is of light color and looks best in black cups. The cups made at Jianyang are bluish-black in color, marked like the fur of a hare. Being of rather thick fabric they retain the heat, so that when once warmed through they cool very slowly, and they are additionally valued on this account. None of the cups produced at other places can rival these. Blue and white cups are not used by those who give tea-tasting parties."
The Jian Zhan Tea Cup is the pinnacle of black porcelain. It saw its rise during the Song Dynasty. This pottery style was studied in depth by Japanese potters for use during Japanese tea ceremonies, known as chanoyu. The style is referred to as Tenmoku in Japan.
While this style slowly gave way to Yixing ware in China, it continued flourishing in Japan, where it became a national treasure.
Nowadays, there are but a few artists who are trying to revive the original Jian tea cup making in China.
One such pottery artist is Hong Kong-born Chan Hoi Kong (Brian). From a young age, under the influence of his grandfather, he has been into a wide range of Chinese pottery and art. Kong stayed in the famous Wuyi Mountains for 9 months studying the unique iron-rich clay exclusive to the area.
Kong spent his time acquiring techniques from many old craftsmen. Finally, hundreds of experiments later, he developed his three signature patterns using the un-altered traditional minerals and forming contemporary-looking Jian tea wares.
The clay used for Jian pottery is very high in iron and requires a very high temperature for firing. Kilns used for firing this style of teaware are not easy to make and thus are incredibly precious.
Building an appropriate kiln is only a part of the struggles that Jian Zhan potters face. Only with the right kiln can the glaze run so beautifully, creating the iconic patterns of this pottery style and thickening at the bottom of the tea cup's foot.
Wood-fired kiln
A Jianzhan teacup is known for its sturdiness and weight, yet a simple shape, which pleasantly sits in the hands. The subtle effects in the glazes distinguish the style. These effects can only be achieved using special kilns, with a high-iron glaze and high firing temperatures. The patterns are characterized as follows: oil drop, partridge feathers, and rabbit hair.
When drinking tea from a Jianzhan teacup, the brew's temperature will stay pleasantly warm for a long time, yet without burning you. While you sip the tea, watch the colors of the glaze gently play and intermingle with the tea. The dark yet vibrant colors of the iron-rich glaze will unite, forming beautiful blues, gold, and other magical colors.
Furthermore, the qualities of the teacup soften the water, making it more alkaline, smooth, and flowing. When comparing the water side by side with a regular porcelain teacup, the difference doesn't go unnoticed. The precious aroma of the tea becomes more evident.
Material: Jian Zhan Porcelain (Tenmoku)
Capacity: 40ml
What's in the set: Two teacups with a wooden box
NOTE: This teacup is handmade. It makes each teacup truly unique and one of a kind.
NOTE: Avoid using detergents when cleaning.