Jizhou-ware tea bowls. China, Song period (960 - 1279). Glazed stoneware, Jizhou ware. The decoration on the inside of these bowls was applied by placing pieces of paper on the wet glaze. When fired, the paper burned away, leaving a dark pattern on the clay. These decorations (calligraphic characters, or birds, such as the phoenix) signify good luck, wealth and prosperity. Westendorp bequest.