Small stoneware ewer of globular form with short cylindrical spout, trumpet neck and applied strap handle. Covered with a dark-brown glaze stopping irregularly above an unglazed circular foot. Vessels like this one were traditionally used in the making of tea which, by the late Tang dynasty (618-906), had become a popular beverage. They were used not for steeping tea, but as pitchers for dispersing hot water into individual tea bowls where it was whisked with dried powdered tea leaves.
In good condition with some age-related crackle and glaze wear. One old chip to the foot rim as per photographs.
Height: 15 cm
References
Sotheby’s Chinese Art sale, 2 June 2016, lot 739 – A ‘HENAN’ BLACK-GLAZED EWER SONG DYNASTY
Christie’s Pavilion Sale – Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, 6 October 2015, lot 75 – A HENAN BLACK-GLAZED BLUE-SPLASHED EWER TANG DYNASTY (618-907)
