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While we've discussed the techniques themselves, it's worth focusing on the legacy of underglaze blue specifically during the Ming. The widespread use of underglaze blue on Ming Dynasty porcelain, which was both refined and innovated at this time, had a lasting impact on the subsequent development of Chinese and global ceramic traditions, and the enduring influence of these techniques can still be seen throughout the world today. The technical mastery of underglaze blue decoration during the Ming Dynasty laid the groundwork for the production of blue and white porcelain for centuries to come. The high quality of the techniques that were developed at this time set a new standard for quality and also opened up new expressive possibilities for future generations of artists. The aesthetic and cultural impact of Ming blue and white porcelain extended far beyond China, influencing ceramic production in many different countries and cultures. The use of underglaze blue continues to be a defining feature of Chinese porcelain and a beloved artistic style throughout the world. The enduring legacy of Ming underglaze blue underscores its position as a pinnacle of Chinese ceramic achievement. |
Tag : Ming underglaze blue, Chinese porcelain, ancient legacy, blue and white, global influence
While we've touched on imperial influence, it's worth revisiting the specific impact of the Wanli Emperor (r. 1572-1620) on Ming ceramics. The Wanli period, which was one of the longest of the Ming Dynasty, saw a unique style of ceramic production that reflected the emperor’s personal tastes and the changing economic landscape of the time. The emperor’s preferences had a profound effect on the styles and production methods that were popular during this time period.
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.
While emperors are often credited with shaping artistic tastes, it's important to acknowledge the influence of powerful court eunuchs during the Ming Dynasty on ceramic production. These figures, often close to the imperial family, could wield significant power and influence, and their preferences sometimes shaped the types of pieces that were created during this period.
While we've touched on animals, it's useful to focus on their specific symbolic meanings in Ming ceramics, and how these meanings might have shaped the choices that were made by potters during this time period. Beyond dragons and phoenixes, a variety of other animals, both real and mythical, were depicted on Ming Dynasty ceramics, each carrying their own symbolic associations and meanings.
While iron-red and black are more common, Ming Dynasty potters also explored the use of iron to create a variety of brown glazes, ranging from light tan to deep, almost chocolate brown tones. These variations in tone were the result of different firing conditions and glaze application techniques. The pieces made with these techniques often demonstrate the versatility of the materials that were used during the Ming period.