The Development of the Cobalt Underglaze Technique
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The Yuan Dynasty saw a pivotal development in ceramic technology: the mastering of the cobalt underglaze technique. This technique, which involves painting designs onto the porcelain body with cobalt oxide before applying the glaze, was crucial for the emergence of blue and white porcelain. The development of the cobalt technique was a major technical accomplishment.  The use of cobalt oxide as a coloring agent was not new; however, the Yuan potters perfected the method of applying the pigment and firing it to achieve a deep, vibrant blue color. The Yuan potters learned how to work with cobalt to create stunning and lasting works of art. This technique proved itself very stable in the kiln.  The sourcing of cobalt was also crucial for this development. Much of the cobalt used during the Yuan period came from Persia, highlighting the importance of international trade for ceramic innovation. The reliability of supply played a huge role in the growth of the blue and white industry.  The cobalt underglaze technique allowed for the creation of intricate designs and the precise control of color. This allowed for a much higher degree of design freedom and artistic experimentation. This innovation opened up new possibilities in terms of decoration. The enduring legacy of the cobalt underglaze technique lies in its impact on later Chinese ceramics and its continued use around the world. It remains a fundamental part of many ceramic traditions around the world to this day. The mastery of this technique is a pivotal event in ceramic history. |
Tag : Cobalt underglaze, Yuan Dynasty, Blue and white, Ceramic technique, Chinese porcelain
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The Yuan Dynasty was a period of continued evolution in the development of porcelain, with potters making advancements in the use of materials, glaze formulations, and firing techniques. The Yuan period laid the groundwork for the eventual innovations of the Ming and Qing eras, and it shows the continued development of pottery traditions that had been developed over centuries in China.
The Yuan Dynasty was established by the Mongol Empire, and this period of Mongol rule had a subtle yet significant impact on the development of Chinese ceramics, particularly in terms of its trade networks and the cultural exchange that occurred during this period, and the influence of the Mongol Empire is visible in various aspects of the production and design of Yuan pottery.
This article explores the symbolic use of animals in the decoration of Yuan Dynasty porcelain, focusing on the meanings of dragons, phoenixes, and other creatures, providing insights into the cultural beliefs of the era.
Although the Yuan Dynasty conquered the Southern Song, the artistic traditions and ceramic techniques of the Southern Song had a lingering influence on the production of Yuan ceramics, and some Song styles, forms and techniques were adapted and incorporated into Yuan period pottery production.
One of the defining characteristics of Yuan Dynasty ceramics is their large scale. Many pieces, particularly those produced for export or for use in large public settings, were made in impressive sizes that were much larger than those of the preceding Song Dynasty. The larger pieces show a different approach to production and a change in aesthetic sensibility.