Northern Song-Jin Dynasty (960-1234)

Finely potted with curved sides, resting on a recessed foot rim. The striated cream and dark brown and white clay blended in a vivid pattern.

H. 1 1/2 in., D. 4 3/4 in.

Note: The approach to achieve a marble effect in ceramic production was known as 'jiao tai' in China and became popular in the Tang dynasty. It was achieved either by combining clays of different colors when making the vessel, or by using two contrasting slips on the surface of the vessel. The piece was then covered with a transparent glaze. The popularity of marbled wares with the Tang aristocracy was confirmed by the discovery of a small number of horses made with marbled clay among the items in the tomb of the Tang Princess Yongtai, who was given a grand reinterment in AD 706.