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While underglaze blue and overglaze enamels were often seen in separate styles, Ming potters also developed techniques for combining both methods on the same piece. These combined techniques demonstrate the ingenuity and versatility of potters during this time, and also the ways in which they sought to explore the interplay of different design techniques. The combination of underglaze blue outlines with overglaze enamel details created a sense of depth and visual complexity that was previously difficult to achieve. The blue underglaze often served as a base for more elaborate designs, allowing the overglaze enamels to stand out and create an additional element of visual impact. The use of both underglaze and overglaze techniques demonstrated the technical mastery and artistic creativity of Ming potters, and the application of multiple techniques demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated approaches that were taken during this period. This integration of underglaze and overglaze techniques had a lasting influence on later generations of Chinese potters. |
Tag : Ming underglaze overglaze, Chinese pottery, combined techniques, porcelain decoration, layered art
While Buddhism was a major influence, Daoist symbolism also appeared on some Ming Dynasty ceramics, reflecting the influence of this ancient Chinese philosophy on daily life. The Daoist symbols that appear on these pieces are an important aspect of the overall visual language that was being used during this time.
While we’ve discussed white wares, it’s worthwhile to focus on the technical development of white glazes during the Ming Dynasty. Potters devoted considerable effort to refining the techniques for creating pure, white glazes that emphasized the beauty of the porcelain body, and the desire to produce pure white glazes meant that potters were constantly experimenting with materials and firing methods.
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.
The Chenghua reign (1465-1487) is renowned for its delicate and refined porcelain, including the iconic "chicken cups", characterized by pale blue colors, subtle designs, and exquisite doucai technique.
While previously mentioned, it is helpful to revisit the specific techniques that were used to produce a turquoise-blue style glaze in the Ming era. While not as common as other colors, some Ming potters achieved beautiful and unique shades of turquoise blue, showcasing their technical skill and experimental approach to glaze development.