Jianzhan Cup is a type of Chinese black porcelain originating from Jianyang, Fujian province.
Pottery has existed in Fujian province since the time of the Northern and Southern Dynasties (220–589). However, the Jian Zhan tea cup saw its rise during the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279). Nowadays, it is revered as the pinnacle of black porcelain ware.
At the time, tea was a big part of Chinese culture and lifestyle, although it was drunk in a very particular way. Tea was compressed into bricks, ground up into a powder, and whisked in tea bowls, much like present-day Japanese matcha green tea.
Once the green powder was whisked against the brilliant black, blue, and purple hues of Tian Mu bowls, it created an exquisite contrast. Against the dark glaze, it was exceptionally pleasing to look at the green foam. It was proclaimed that this teaware is the only true way tea should be enjoyed!