A teabowl fired in a Cizhou kiln during the Ming to Qing dynasties. The Lingzhi (auspicious mushroom) pattern is painted in underglaze iron on a white-slipped interior. The exterior, simply covered with transparent glaze, allows the natural clay colour to emerge, an intriguing contrast to the refined interior decoration. The monotone Lingzhi design, applied with light, expressive brushstrokes, reveals an originality that steps beyond the influences of South China.

The interior displays fire blisters and minor chips on the foot. Besides natural kiln damages like stone chips, the piece remains in excellent condition. It comes with a box.