The bemycups Five Colors Jian Zhan collection draws inspiration from the Confucian virtues of Ren, Yi, Li, Zhi, and Xin—the Five Constants. Each color symbolizes one of these virtues, blending aesthetics with profound cultural meaning. These Jian Zhan cups go beyond simple tea vessels; they serve as symbols of moral guidance, encouraging the values of kindness, integrity, respect, wisdom, and faithfulness in everyday life. Through these colors, we hope to...

Jian Zhan, also known as Jian Ware, originates from Jianyang, China, and is a distinctive type of Chinese pottery. In Japan, it is referred to as 'Tenmoku'. While various forms of Jian Zhan pottery exist, bowls and cups stand out as the most popular crafted items. The allure of these cups lies in their rich, dark glaze adorned with captivating 'special effects.' Achieved through high-temperature firing, the glaze crystallizes, giving...

Jianzhan, or Tenmoku teacups, are truly captivating—simple in form but rich with intricate detail in their glaze. Each cup’s glaze is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Though minimalist in shape, they make a striking visual impact with each use. No wonder they’re so cherished! But how much do you know about the magic behind your Tenmoku teacups? Here are five intriguing facts about these unique pieces: 1. Every Teacup is One-of-a-Kind...

Jianzhan teacups, though fired in a single color, emerge from the kiln displaying a stunning variety of shades and hues, a phenomenon that is both the allure and the challenge of wood-fired Jianzhan. Within the same kiln, Jianzhan pieces can display dramatically different glaze colors, even if they are fired in identical conditions or positioned side-by-side in the same kiln chamber. When comparing wood-fired and electric-fired Jianzhan with identical patterns,...

As an artistic teacup, Jianzhan aligns well with modern aesthetics, making it highly popular. Once introduced to Jianzhan, many people seek a deeper understanding of its unique qualities. Jianzhan can range from basic to top-quality, and to appreciate and identify the finest examples, consider the following criteria: Tu Hao Jianzhan: This type is characterized by a deep blackish-green base color with smooth, silky stripes. To be classified as top-quality, the...

Before diving into this discussion, it’s essential to distinguish authentic Jianzhan from other types of porcelain. This guide isn’t about price or quality or trying to avoid anyone’s opinion; instead, it’s about understanding Jianzhan through experience. The author’s motivation for this article arises from frequent questions on how to choose Jianzhan and on details that aren’t readily available online, as answers often vary widely. This advice stems from personal experience...