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Auspicious motifs, which convey messages of good fortune, happiness, and prosperity, were a key element of decorative design on Ming Dynasty ceramics. The incorporation of these symbols reflects the importance of tradition and cultural values, and also helps to understand the cultural meanings that were embedded into these types of pieces. Auspicious symbols, such as the dragon, phoenix, qilin, and various other animals and plants, were commonly used to adorn Ming ceramics. The presence of these symbols was intended to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who owned or used them. Geometric patterns, floral motifs, and calligraphy were also used to convey messages of good wishes, longevity, and success. The patterns that were used were each intended to communicate different values and ideas to the owner or intended recipient of these types of pottery pieces. The use of auspicious motifs in Ming ceramics demonstrates the interconnectedness of art, symbolism, and cultural beliefs in Chinese society. The enduring popularity of these types of motifs is a testament to their timeless appeal and enduring cultural significance, and underscores their importance as a form of artistic expression during this period. |
Tag : Ming auspicious motifs, Chinese symbols, pottery design, good fortune, symbolic art
"Kraak" porcelain, a term derived from the Dutch word for a type of ship, refers to a specific style of late Ming blue and white porcelain that was produced specifically for export, and these pieces are an important example of the cross cultural exchange that occurred through trade and commerce.
While we’ve addressed innovation before, it is useful to conclude by focusing on the enduring legacy of specific technical innovations of Ming potters. The techniques they developed, refined and combined continue to influence potters around the world today, and highlight the continued relevance of Ming era styles and production methods.
While touched on earlier, it's useful to revisit specifically the enduring influence of popular culture in Ming Dynasty ceramics. While courtly art often emphasized restraint, Ming ceramics also reflected the tastes and preferences of a wider audience, often incorporating themes and motifs from everyday life and popular entertainment. These pieces demonstrate the way that art could be used to reflect everyday life and also a more widely accessible cultural vocabulary.
We've discussed literati taste, but let's focus on the specific motifs associated with scholarly life that often appeared on Ming Dynasty ceramics. The inclusion of these elements demonstrates the ongoing respect for learning, intellectual pursuits, and the natural world that was central to scholarly thought at the time.
While red glazes had been used previously, Ming potters achieved a new level of intensity and brightness in the development of "coral red" glazes. The distinctive red tones and glossy surfaces are a key element of the overall beauty of the pieces that were decorated with this specific colour.