Ewer, Xing ware

Date9th century

MediumPorcelain with white glaze

DimensionsHeight: 7 5/8 inches (19.4 cm)

CultureChina

PeriodTang dynasty (618–907)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGeorge and Mary Rockwell Collection

Terms

Ceramics
Stoneware
Stoneware with white glaze

Object number86.121.037

Label CopyXing ware is a pure white ware with white glaze that is nearly porcelain, though not quite as high fired as porcelain from later periods. In classic porcelain the glaze and body fuse together completely, while in Xing ware the glaze still appears as an applied coating on the vessel. Ewers such as this were used in the preparation of tea. A similar ewer excavated from a tomb at Xi'an dated to 808 is inscribed on its base with the name of the teahouse where it was used.

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