Antique Jizhou Tenmoku bowl with Tortoiseshell Glaze #5214

caliber: approx. 15cm (5 29⁄32in)

height: approx. 5cm (1 31⁄32in)

weight : 267g

origin: China

This tea bowl, known as a "Daimai Tenmoku" from the Jizhou kiln of the Song dynasty in China, is a remarkable piece showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of one of Jiangxi Province's most renowned folk kilns. The Jizhou kiln was celebrated for producing Tenmoku tea bowls with diverse decorative techniques, and this particular piece, highly prized as "Daimai Tenmoku," stands out for its distinctive glaze patterns. The term "Daimai" refers to the resemblance of its patterns to the mottled shell of a hawksbill turtle (Daimai), with its irregular, naturally occurring motifs and lustrous blackish-brown glaze harmonizing to create a beauty that appears as if shaped by nature itself.

The exterior of the bowl displays a striking contrast, with golden-brown mottled patterns spreading across a deep black ground. The surface gleams beautifully when catching light, revealing a unique texture and brilliance. These patterns arise naturally due to the thickness of the glaze and the kiln's firing environment, ensuring that no two pieces share identical designs—this uniqueness is one of its most appealing qualities. The interior of the bowl is equally adorned with even mottling, and the smooth flow of glaze from the rim to the inside reveals the careful craftsmanship. The foot (koudai) retains its natural earthen texture, providing a rustic yet refined finish that showcases the high level of skill characteristic of the period.

In terms of condition, the tea bowl is exceptionally well-preserved, with no noticeable chips, cracks, or wear to the glaze. The overall luster remains intact, and the subtle aging of the foot ring enhances its elegance, evoking a timeless aesthetic. As a functional tea utensil, it offers exceptional practicality; when matcha is prepared, the glaze's patterns are beautifully accentuated, transforming the tea bowl into a serene landscape.

Tenmoku tea bowls from the Jizhou kiln of the Song dynasty have been revered in Japan's chadō (tea ceremony) culture for centuries, where they have been celebrated as "Tenmoku" and highly esteemed by tea masters. Rare examples like this Daimai Tenmoku remain highly sought after in today's market and are coveted by collectors worldwide. Beyond its value as a display piece, using it in a tea ceremony further reveals its beauty and historical significance. This tea bowl is a superb representation of the Song dynasty's aesthetic and technical mastery—an exquisite work that continues to inspire and captivate admirers through the ages.