The Rabbit-hair Tenmoku Tea Bowl 兔毫油滴天目茶碗

Material: Ceramic
Dimensions: 5.25 inch x 5.25 inch x 2.87 inch
Weight: 426.5 g
Capacity(volume): 500 ml
This captivating Rabbit-hair Tenmoku Tea Bowl, crafted by the renowned Taiwanese master Shao Liang-yang 邵椋揚, is a masterpiece of ceramic artistry that pays homage to the storied tradition of Song Dynasty Jian ware while showcasing his exceptional skill and vision. Known for his specialization in Tenmoku techniques, Shao Liang-yang has created a bowl that embodies the natural beauty and philosophical depth cherished in Chinese tea culture.
The bowl features a rich, glossy black glaze with delicate, fine streaks resembling rabbit fur—hence its name, “rabbit-hair” (or 兔毫 in Chinese). These elegant, silvery-gray or tan lines flow across the surface, formed naturally during high-temperature firing as iron oxide in the glaze crystallizes and migrates, creating a unique pattern that no two bowls can replicate. The deep, wide shape of the bowl, with its smooth, rounded form and subtle foot ring, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, inviting a meditative tea-drinking experience.
Crafted from high-quality ceramic, this tea bowl is designed for the traditional preparation and enjoyment of tea, such as matcha or gongfu-style brewing. Its form highlights the color, aroma, and foam of the tea, while its thick, dense structure helps retain heat, enhancing the tea’s flavor and longevity.
Rooted in the legacy of Jian kilns from Fujian, China, rabbit-hair Tenmoku bowls were prized during the Song Dynasty for their ability to complement tea’s appearance and were favored by Zen monks and tea connoisseurs, including Emperor Song Huizong, who lauded their ability to accentuate tea’s color and foam. Shao Liang-yang’s rendition preserves this historical significance while infusing it with his artistic philosophy, which celebrates the harmony between human craftsmanship and nature’s unpredictability. Each bowl is a unique work of art, perfect for tea ceremonies, daily use, or as a collector’s treasure that invites reflection on the serene beauty of the natural world.