A teabowl fired at the Xiba kiln in Sichuan during the Southern Song dynasty. The vessel features a small, indented lip and is coated in an opaque blue-marbled glaze, which flows across the surface in a striking display of kiln effects. The exposed base retains a soft earthen texture, with a shallowly carved bottom reminiscent of goke-zoko bottom.

The Xiba kiln was once active in Leshan, Sichuan Province. In addition to the Tenmoku glaze, similar to that of Jian ware (Fujian Province) and Jizhou ware (Jiangxi Province), it is known for its orphic style, which is characterised by unique kiln-effect techniques, as seen in this piece. At a time when the centre of ceramic production was shifting from the Central Plains to Jiangnan, this piece embodies the enduring artistic legacy of Ancient Shu, distinct from both traditions.

There are no noticeable defects, and the condition is excellent.