Jianzhan: A Scientific Introduction to the Millennium-Old Porcelain of the Song Dynasty

In China's long history of ceramics, there is a unique type of black-glazed porcelain. It is thick and simple, but can reflect the beauty of the movement of stars in a cup of tea - it is Jianzhan.

1. The Origin and History of Jianzhan

Jianzhan, produced in Jianyang, Fujian (formerly known as Jianzhou), is one of the eight famous porcelains of the Song Dynasty. It first emerged during the late Tang and Five Dynasties, reaching its peak during the Song Dynasty. Its unique black glaze and texture were highly revered in tea culture. Especially during the Song Dynasty, when "tea-fighting" competitions were prevalent, Jianzhan became the teaware of choice for literati, scholars, and royal nobles.

According to historical records, Emperor Huizong of Song, Zhao Ji, was not only a master of art appreciation but also a devoted fan of Jianzhan tea. In his treatise "Daguan Cha Lun," he mentioned that black teacups must be used in tea competitions to highlight the color of the tea soup, demonstrating the cultural importance of Jianzhan at the time.

2. Craftsmanship and Characteristics of Jianzhan

Jianzhan is a high-temperature iron-glazed porcelain. Its uniqueness lies in the natural texture of the glaze during the high-temperature firing process. Common textures include:

• Rabbit-hair cup: The glaze pattern is like the hair of a wild rabbit, with each strand clearly visible.

• Oil-Dripping Lamp: Spectacular, like the stars in the night sky. (The cover photo shows an oil-dripping lamp)

• Yaobianzhan: Extremely rare, with ever-changing colors, like the flowing light of the universe.

The Jianzhan teapot has a thick, stable body and a deep, restrained black glaze. This deep black glaze creates a clearer, brighter tea soup, creating a strong contrast that perfectly captures the Song Dynasty's desire to "observe the tea soup's color and compare its bloom."

III. Cultural Value and Contemporary Heritage

Jianzhan is not only a tea set, but also a carrier of culture. It embodies the essence of Song Dynasty tea culture and represents the ancient people's ultimate pursuit of beauty and life.

Today, Jianzhan teapots have been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. With the revival of traditional tea culture, Jianzhan teapots have re-entered the public eye, becoming not only a sought-after art treasure for collectors but also an elegant choice for modern tea occasions.

IV. Conclusion

A small Jianzhan teapot carries a thousand years of craftsmanship and cultural memory. Whether as a tea utensil or as a work of art, it quietly tells the story of the Song Dynasty.

When you pick up a Jianzhan teacup, you are not only tasting tea, but also communicating with the hearts and minds of the ancients.

Note: Jianzhan contains iron; please do not put it into the microwave

- Brewin Teaware