The 1087 Imperial Decree: Redefining the Cizhou Bear-Motif and "Dao-Shi(島使)" Epigraphy in Northern Song Maritime Administration
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This research brief establishes a radical chronological and administrative revision for the historic Cizhou white-slip black-chromate (underglaze iron) sgraffito vessels bearing the iconic tied-bear motif (Xiongwun, 熊紋). While global baseline collections—most notably the British Museum’s cizhou bear-motif pillow (Museum No. A_1936-1012-230)—have historically been attributed broadly to the Jin or Yuan dynasties, this study presents an airtight comparative control pair from the Sigong Collection (Specimens SG-CZ-01 and SG-CZ-02) that conclusively anchors this paradigm to the Northern Song Dynasty, specifically the year 1087 (Yuanwu Year 2). Through formal metrological analysis, epigraphic transcription of the official "Dao-Shi" (島使 - Island Commissioner) title, and cross-comparative neck typography (Pankou-form vs. Tikou-form), this brief reconstructs the state-sponsored coastal defense and maritime administrative frameworks of Emperor Zhezong's court. Keywords: Cizhou Inscribed Vessel, 1087 Yuanwu Inscription, Dao-Shi Island Commissioner, Tied Bear Motif, Northern Song Maritime Archaeology, Pankou Typography, Imperial Sgraffito Control
Author: Park, Dong-kyu
Language: English
Subfield: History
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221005139