Ceramic teacup · Jian Zhan · Oil spot glaze

Round ceramic teacup carefully handmade by artisans in Jianyang, Fujian, using ancient Song dynasty techniques. Featuring the distinctive oil spot pattern in deep blue and silver tones, this piece showcases the mesmerising glaze effects achieved through high-temperature firing. The natural heat retention and subtle mineral notes these vessels impart to tea make them perfect for tea ceremonies or as a treasured 'host cup' for tea enthusiasts.

The Craft. Each teacup is wheel-thrown from local iron-rich clay and fired in traditional dragon kilns at temperatures exceeding 1300°C. The unique composition of Jianyang clay, combined with high-temperature firing, produces the mesmerising patterns that emerge spontaneously, from oil spots and hare's fur to the rare and prized partridge feather.  This ancient technique requires precise control of temperature and atmosphere within the kiln, artisans combining ancestral firing methods with contemporary precision to achieve the distinctive iridescent finish.

The Heritage. Jian Zhan ceramics originated in Jianyang during the Song Dynasty, reaching their pinnacle of artistry when they became the preferred tea bowls for the imperial court and Buddhist monks. These remarkable vessels were created specifically for the tea ceremony culture that flourished during this golden age of Chinese civilisation. After declining during the Yuan Dynasty, this ancient craft was lost for centuries until master potters painstakingly revived the techniques in the 1980s. Today, Jianyang remains the heart of authentic Jian Zhan production, where contemporary artisans honour traditional methods whilst pushing the boundaries of this  meticulous ceramic art.

The Maker. Artisans in Jianyang, Fujian Province have revived the millennium-old tradition of Jian Zhan ceramics, combining ancestral firing techniques with contemporary precision. Working with local iron-rich clay in traditional dragon kilns, they create handmade ceramic vessels that enhance the tea drinking experience through natural heat retention and the subtle mineral notes they impart to the brew.