Tortoiseshell Tea Bowl, 12th-13th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Chi-chou ware Stoneware with dark-brown and splashed-amber glazesexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 99.180.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
The Chi-chou region located in central Kiangsi province produced its best known wares during Southern Sung (1127-1279). This was a technically creative period when Chi-chou kilns introduced and pioneered new techniques of decoration including tortoiseshell glazes as well as paper cut, glaze resist and naturalistic leaf designs. Called tai mei wen in Sung literature, tortoiseshell refers to the shell of the hawksbill sea turtle from which the Chinese made a variety of decorative items. The glaze was apparently made by splashing wood or bamboo ash, probably as an admixture of slip, on the surface of the dark glaze before firing. Light-toned splashes formed in those areas receiving the ash.
Details
- Title
- Tortoiseshell Tea Bowl
- Role
- Artist
- Dimension
- H.2-1/16 x Dia.6 in.
- Accession Number
- 99.180.2
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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