This is a small, Song dynasty tea bowl of the cizhou type, probably from the Dongzhang or Minhou kiln in Fujian province, that has been recovered from a shipwreck. The grey body has a typical black glaze with russet patches. It is sturdily potted despite its light weight. The well of the interior is of uneven depth probably due, to a thumb pushing downwards in that area. I find this a particularly nice piece to hold, not just the nice shape but it also very smooth. The foot rim has been trimmed on a slant and there are patches of incrustation especially on the base.
Using UV light, there are signs of restorations around the rim, but no hairlines show up. There is also a tiny chip which I have photographed from both sides, . Please study the photos carefully, you will notice the glaze has crackled but this is not easily visible to the naked eye. If you need more pictures or have questions, please get in touch.
Approximate dimensions : 9.8 cms diameter x 4.5 cms high ; 134g
Provenance: no. 75 in the J P Doan collection.
Ref: DQA851PVAR