This stoneware bowl was made in the Changsha kilns of Southern China around the 830s. These kilns produced ceramics on an industrial scale. Because they were painted by many different artists, the patterns vary greatly. The brown patches framing the designs were applied speedily by dipping the rims of the bowls into glaze. Common designs include clouds, landscapes, birds, flowers, foliage, and spirals. This particular example has a bird motif. The splendid plumage and the circular markings on its tail feathers alludes to the peacock.
 
		 
                             
                             
                             
                            