The term “Yao Bian” in the context of Jianzhan Tianmu refers to a special type of Jianzhan, which develops unique patterns and color effects during the firing process. Here are the characteristics of “Yao Bian” Jianzhan in English:
Natural Coloring Technique: “Yao Bian” is an uncontrollable, natural coloring technique that occurs during the firing of Jian kiln black-glazed porcelain. The formation of the patterns is random and difficult to control, and with the loss of the firing techniques for Yao Bian Jianzhan, it has been defined as an enigma by the outside world.
Appearance Features: On the interior black glaze of the “Yao Bian” Jianzhan, clusters of varying sizes known as star spots (crystals) float, surrounded by lapis lazuli or it refers to something surrounded by rainbow-colored brilliance. When light shines inside the bowl, it reflects back, turning into a rainbow of seven colors that change with the angle. This is a necessary condition for Yao Bian Tianmu bowls.
Preciousness: “Yao Bian” is ranked as the supreme divine product of Jianzhan, the cream of the crop. The three surviving Song Dynasty Yao Bian Tianmu tea bowls in the world are respectively collected in Japan’s Seikado, Fujita Art Museum, and Ryokanji Myoshin-ji, and are listed as national treasures of Japan.
Historical Records: The term “Yao Bian” first appeared in Japan, referring to the patterns produced on black-glazed porcelain in a kiln by fierce fire. It is also the most commonly used term for this type of Jianzhan by modern people. In Japan, the term “Yao Bian” first appeared in the Muromachi period’s “Noua Chuan Cheng Ji”.
Cultural Significance: Due to its unique appearance and rarity, “Yao Bian” Jianzhan is considered a “universe visible in a container,” holding extremely high cultural and artistic value.
In summary, “Yao Bian” Jianzhan, with its unique natural coloring technique and appearance features, holds an extremely important position among Jianzhan, representing the ultimate in quality and a treasure in the art of ceramics.
