An increased enthusiasm for tea during the Song dynasty (AD 960-1279) resulted in a number of stylistic changes to the vessels in which this beverage was consumed. As tea parties became the vogue, connoisseurs prided themselves on their ability to prepare tea, and contests were devised for the preparation of so-called 'whipped tea', whisked to produce a white froth on the top. Since the winner was the person whose froth lasted the longest, having a bowl whose color highlighted the froth to advantage was soon regarded as desirable. Black tea bowls, in contrast to the celadon vessels of the earlier Tang dynasty (AD 618-907,) became fashionable and were made at a number of kilns in northern and southern China, including the Jian kilns of Fujian, where this bowl was made.
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We have sought to record changes in the condition of this piece acquired after its initial manufacture. - small chips to foot rim
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