|
While design is important, it's important to recognize the continued emphasis on form during the Ming Dynasty. Potters continued to explore and refine various ceramic forms, creating a range of vessels that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The continued focus on form and shape demonstrates the skill and sophistication of potters during this time. The elegant and balanced proportions of Ming vases, bowls, dishes, and other objects demonstrate the potters' keen attention to shape and form. The subtle variations in line and curve were a key element of the overall appeal of these types of pieces. The creation of complex and dynamic forms required a high level of technical skill and a deep understanding of clay properties, and the pieces that were created during this time showcase the technical mastery of pottery production during this era. The exploration of new forms and the refinement of traditional designs are a key element of the overall history of Ming Dynasty pottery production. The enduring legacy of Ming ceramics lies in their mastery of both form and decoration and their continuing ability to be both functional and also beautiful. |
Tag : Ming pottery form, Chinese vessel design, ancient shapes, ceramic proportions, Ming aesthetics
While we’ve discussed the use of iron oxide, let’s examine the specific level of control that Ming potters achieved over this material. Ming potters gained an incredible amount of control over the use of iron oxide to achieve a variety of colors, tones, and textures in their glazes and underglaze decorations, demonstrating the high level of technical expertise that was common during this period.
While we have touched on the use of gouache, it is useful to revisit the specific ways in which the appearance of this type of painting influenced the application of overglaze enamels in Ming ceramics. The desire to create a dense, opaque look akin to gouache paint led to some new techniques and stylistic approaches that changed the look and texture of some Ming pieces.
While explicit landscape scenes are less common than other types of decoration, the subtle influence of landscape painting can be seen in the design of some Ming ceramics. The forms, colours and textures of pieces from this era often evoke a sense of nature and natural forms. The indirect presence of nature is a key aspect of the overall aesthetic sensibility of the period.
While "Famille Noire" is most closely associated with the Qing Dynasty, some early influences of this style, which features a black enamel background that sets off other overglaze colors, can be seen in some late Ming Dynasty ceramics. These pieces are a testament to the experimental nature of pottery production during this time period and its influence on the styles and techniques that would emerge in later eras.
While the production of Jian ware declined in earlier periods, its aesthetic influence and functional qualities continued to be appreciated and, sometimes, adapted in Ming Dynasty ceramics, particularly in tea bowls. These types of pieces continued to be prized by tea enthusiasts, which demonstrates the enduring importance and impact of these forms, even centuries after their first production.