Song dynasty celadon glazed bowl

A shallow Chinese celadon glazed bowl with incised floral decorations, from the Jepara Shipwreck.

The Jepara Shipwreck is a significant maritime discovery off Jepara, Indonesia, dating back to the late 13th or early 14th century during the Yuan Dynasty and the Majapahit Empire. The wreck contained valuable artifacts, primarily Chinese ceramics from the Song and Yuan Dynasties, including celadon and blue-and-white porcelain, highly sought after in Southeast Asia. This discovery highlights the importance of trade and cultural exchange between China and Southeast Asia, reflecting the sophisticated maritime networks of the time. It also offers insights into the design of large Southeast Asian trading vessels.

Song Dynasty celadon (960–1279 CE) is a highly regarded type of Chinese ceramic known for its refined, jade-like glaze, typically in shades of green or bluish-green. Produced mainly in Longquan kilns, Song celadon is admired for its elegant, simple forms and smooth, translucent glaze that mimics the look of polished jade. Common designs include subtle incised patterns of flowers, leaves, or geometric motifs. Song celadon reflects the dynasty's aesthetic focus on natural beauty, harmony, and balance, making it one of the most prized types of Chinese ceramics.