At the edge where the Tasman Sea meets ancient Chinese wisdom, Ciporcelain reimagines 800-year-old ceramic traditions for the Australian way of life. We don’t just import tea ware – we translate the poetry of Song Dynasty kilns into objects that speak to your morning ritual, bushland gatherings, and coastal sunset reflections.
Fujian mountain clay
Australian red earth
Chapter 1: The Alchemy of Earth & Fire
Every piece begins with clay that witnessed the reign of Chinese emperors – sourced from protected sites near UNESCO-listed Jian Kilns. But here’s where our story takes an Australian turn:
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Clay Revival: Aged mineral-rich soil, hand-sieved using 13th-century bamboo tools
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Glaze Whispering: Recipes guarded like vintage wine, blending volcanic ash and iron oxides into "liquid night sky"
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Fire Dance: Wood-firing in dragon kilns, where flames leave unique "ember kisses" on each piece
Why it matters for you: These aren’t mass-produced mugs – they’re geological diaries that make your Earl Grey taste like a ceremony.
Chapter 2: The Origins of Tenmoku Teaware
Tenmoku teaware traces its roots back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279) in China, where potters developed a unique glazing technique that resulted in mesmerizing, dark-colored ceramics with striking surface effects. These tea bowls, known as Jian Zhan (建盏) in China, were favored by monks and scholars for their ability to highlight the color and texture of tea, particularly powdered green tea used in traditional tea ceremonies.
Japanese monks who studied in China brought Tenmoku ware back to Japan, where it was embraced and further refined. The name "Tenmoku" originates from Mount Tianmu (天目山) in Zhejiang Province, where the style first became famous. Today, Tenmoku ceramics remain highly sought after by tea enthusiasts and collectors alike, serving as a bridge between history and modern craftsmanship.
Tenmoku
Mount Tianmu (天目山) in Zhejiang Province
Chapter 3: The Unique Aesthetic of Tenmoku Glazes
One of the most captivating aspects of Tenmoku ceramics is their glaze, which creates stunning, almost cosmic visual effects. The high-iron content in the glaze reacts under intense kiln heat, forming intricate and unpredictable patterns. Some of the most renowned Tenmoku glaze variations include:
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Oil Spot (油滴) – Featuring shimmering silver or golden specks resembling scattered droplets of oil, this glaze is both eye-catching and elegant.
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Hare’s Fur – Characterized by fine streaks running down the surface, resembling the soft fur of a hare, this pattern adds a delicate yet dynamic visual appeal.
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Yohen (曜变) – The rarest and most revered variation, displaying iridescent, galaxy-like bursts of color that shift depending on the light and angle.
Each Tenmoku piece is unique due to the complex firing process, making them cherished items among collectors and tea lovers. The unpredictable nature of the glaze ensures that no two pieces are exactly alike, giving each cup or teapot a distinct character.
Chapter 4:The Role of Tenmoku in Tea Culture
Beyond their visual appeal, Tenmoku tea bowls and teapots are valued for their practical benefits in tea brewing. The thick ceramic walls retain heat exceptionally well, keeping tea warm for a longer period. The dark glaze also enhances the appearance of tea, allowing subtle color variations to be more noticeable, which is particularly important in traditional tea ceremonies.
Additionally, Tenmoku tea bowls are known for their smooth yet tactile feel, providing an enjoyable sensory experience while drinking tea. Many tea practitioners believe that using these bowls enhances the mindfulness of tea preparation and drinking, creating a deeper connection between the drinker and the tea.
Where to Find Authentic Tenmoku Teaware
For those looking to explore the beauty of Tenmoku ceramics, reputable sources CI Porcelain offer a diverse selection of handmade Jian Zhan and Tenmoku teaware. Each piece is crafted with exceptional skill, reflecting the deep heritage and artistry of this timeless ceramic tradition.
When selecting Tenmoku teaware, it is important to look for authentic, handmade pieces, as mass-produced versions often lack the depth of craftsmanship and glaze complexity that define traditional Tenmoku ware.
