Ru Ware Hoof-shape Teacup Underglaz Cracking Ru Kiln Teaware

Ru ware was the favorite of Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty and represents the pinnacle of ancient Chinese aesthetics, continuing to be admired to this day. Interestingly, the unique sky-blue color of Ru ware is said to have originated from a dream of Emperor Huizong. Upon waking, he composed the verse: "The sky clears after the rain, clouds break, revealing this color for the future." In an effort to recreate the color from the emperor's dream, officials across the country embarked on a quest to produce this "sky-blue" glaze. Eventually, the porcelain produced by the official kiln in Ruzhou, Henan Province, was found to be the closest match, giving rise to what is known as "Ru ware." However, due to the political instability at the time, the production of Ru ware lasted only 20 years. Today, only 65 pieces of Ru ware from the Song Dynasty are known to exist.

Fortunately, today's Ruzhou has revived the production of Ru ware with exceptional craftsmanship, and Ru ware is no longer a color exclusive to royalty.As people's understanding of Ru Kiln teacups has deepened, some artists and craftsmen have started to innovate while preserving traditional techniques. By adjusting glaze formulas, improving firing techniques, and other methods, these innovations not only breathe new life into traditional art but also make it more popular and accepted by younger generations.

A significant feature of Ru Kiln is the use of "support pins." Before firing, if a glaze-covered ceramic piece were placed directly on the kiln shelf, the glaze at the bottom would stick to the shelf, causing the glaze to peel off and leaving the base of the ceramic unglazed and rough. This roughness could damage furniture surfaces, especially valuable pieces. To solve this problem, ancient craftsmen developed the method of using support pins. The glazed ceramic was placed on a base with sharp pins, leaving only tiny sesame seed-sized marks where the ceramic separated from the pins after firing. This achieved full glazing of the ceramic while also protecting the furniture surface. This support pin technique has been carried on to this day, and this teapot also uses this technique.