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The Xuande period (1425-1435) is often considered a golden age in the history of Ming Dynasty ceramics, and the quality and innovative designs of pieces produced during this period remain highly valued by collectors and museums worldwide. The skill and innovation of the potters who were producing pieces during this era are clear in the beauty and quality of the pieces that were made. Xuande-era ceramics are characterized by their technical mastery, elegant forms, and vibrant use of color, particularly in blue and white pieces. The innovations of this era would set a new standard for pottery production in subsequent generations. The Xuande period also saw experimentation with new glazes, decorative techniques, and a greater use of figural motifs. The innovative style is clear in both the technical mastery of glaze production and the diversity of design choices. The limited number of surviving pieces and their exceptional quality make Xuande-era ceramics some of the most prized and sought-after examples of Chinese art. The Xuande period is an important and pivotal era in understanding the overall history of Chinese ceramic production, as the innovations of the time had a lasting impact on subsequent pottery traditions. |
Tag : Ming Xuande porcelain, Chinese art, blue and white, imperial ceramics, ancient techniques
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 Famille Verte enamels are most closely associated with the later Qing Dynasty, the seeds of this technique can be seen in some late Ming Dynasty ceramics. Ming potters experimented with green, yellow, and aubergine overglaze enamels, exploring different combinations and application methods, which paved the way for the later development of the full Famille Verte palette. The pieces that were created during this time show the development of colour techniques and their experimentation with layering different glazes and paints.
While Buddhism was a major influence, it's worth specifically looking at how other religious imagery appeared in Ming ceramics. Beyond Buddhist symbols, Ming Dynasty ceramics sometimes featured motifs and figures from Daoism, Confucianism, and even popular folk religions, showcasing the complex religious landscape of the time, and the ways that different traditions were often integrated into common and everyday styles and practices.
"Swatow" ware, a term referring to a type of late Ming ceramic produced for export, particularly to Southeast Asia, is characterized by its bold, often roughly painted designs, its thick glazes, and its robust forms, and these pieces often have a more rustic appearance than some of the more delicate and refined pieces that were made during this era.
The later Ming Dynasty (1522-1644) saw significant diversity in ceramic production, with new colors, glazes, and techniques introduced, alongside a thriving export trade and varied decorative styles reflecting changing tastes.