Crack Jian Zhan

Jian Zhan, the iconic black-glazed tea bowl of the Song Dynasty (960–1279), originated from Jianyang, Fujian, and was named after the Jian Kiln. Flourishing alongside the ancient Chinese tea contest culture, its history dates back to the late Tang Dynasty. Known for its profound glaze resembling ink and mesmerizing patterns—such as "Hare's Fur" (fine silvery streaks), "Oil Spot" (metallic speckles), and "Yohen" (cosmic iridescence)—it is hailed as the "art of earth and fire". Emperor Huizong of Song praised Jian Zhan in his Treatise on Tea for its ability to contrast the whiteness of tea foam, while its thick body retained heat perfectly, embodying both utility and Song aesthetics.

Declining in the Ming Dynasty due to shifts in tea customs, Jian Zhan’s legacy survived in Japan, where four Song-era pieces are designated National Treasures, revered in Japanese tea ceremonies. Today, as a Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage, Jian Zhan is revived by artisans blending traditional techniques with modern artistry, symbolizing a bridge between history and global cultural dialogue