Bowl, 11th-12th century, 3 x 7 9/16 x 7 9/16 in. (7.62 x 19.21 x 19.21 cm) (overall), Yao-chou ware Stoneware with carved decor under a green glaze, China, 11th-12th century, Potted at the Yaozhou kilns in Shanxi province, this bowl has a grooved rim and the interior is finely carved with two carnellia blossoms and an orchid-like flower in profile all encircled by leafy branches. The bowl is covered overall with a crackled sea-green glaze which shades to a deeper tone where it has pooled in the carved recesses. The neatly cut footrim is treated with a light brown wash which is typical of many Yaozhou celadons.