Learn About Jian Zhan
Explore the history, materials, firing techniques, glazes, craftsmanship, collecting traditions, and culture surrounding Jian Zhan.
Clay information
The Clay Behind Jian Zhan (建盏) When collectors first discover Jian Zhan, the glaze usually receives most of the attention. However, experienced ceramic artists…
Explore →Crackle & Crazing
Crackle & Crazing in Jian Zhan 建盏开片 · Kāipiàn Why Jian Zhan glazes crackle, why tea can make the lines darker, how crackle seasoning…
Explore →Da Nankeng vs Jianzhan
How Da Nankeng Kiln Differs from Jianzhan Collectors sometimes see dark-glazed bowls from Fujian with oil-spot-like or crystalline surfaces and assume they must be…
Explore →Dehua wood-fired teaware
About Dehua Wood-Fired Teaware Dehua, Fujian is best known for its Blanc de Chine porcelain, but in recent years it has also become a…
Explore →Diplomatic Gift Jianzhan
Diplomatic Gift Jian Zhan (外交礼品建盏) Collectors occasionally encounter the phrase “diplomat cup” or “diplomatic gift Jian Zhan” when discussing modern Jian ware. This term…
Explore →purple clay teapots
Fifty Shades of Clay • Collector Research Yixing Zisha: What Does “Handmade” Really Mean? 全手工 · 半手工 · 手拉坯 · 灌浆 Cheap purple-clay teapots…
Explore →Seasoning (养杯)
Seasoning Jianzhan 养盏 · Yǎng Zhǎn What really changes when a Jian Zhan is used for tea, what collectors mean by “rainbow seasoning,” what…
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