Blackwares of the Song Dynasty: Jian and Beyond
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While celadon and white porcelains are often highlighted, the blackwares of the Song Dynasty also hold an important place in the ceramic tradition. These dark-glazed ceramics, often produced at kilns like Jian and Jizhou, demonstrate the range and creativity of the Song potters. Blackwares demonstrate the range of glaze techniques used in the period.  Jian ware, produced in Fujian province, is particularly famous for its “hare’s fur” and “oil spot” glazes. These effects were created by the iron content of the glaze and the precise firing conditions. These techniques showcase the potters’ mastery of materials. Jian ware tea bowls are highly prized for their beauty.  Jizhou ware, also produced during the Song Dynasty, is known for its decorative techniques, which included paper-cut stencils, leaf imprints, and painted designs. Jizhou pieces often have a folk art quality to them. Jizhou represents a more rustic quality than some of the other wares of the era.  The forms of blackwares are often simple and functional, including bowls, tea bowls, and bottles. The focus was on highlighting the beauty of the glaze and its texture. The forms are simple and understated, allowing for the beauty of the glazes to stand out. The blackwares of the Song Dynasty demonstrate the diversity and experimentation that characterized this era of ceramic production. They stand in contrast to the more elegant white wares, but are still an important part of the story of Song ceramics. Black wares have their own unique artistic aesthetic. |
Tag : Song blackware, Jian ware, Jizhou ware, Chinese ceramics, Hare’s fur glaze
Related information
- Song Ceramics and the Representation of Nature
- The Beauty of Celadon: Longquan and Beyond
- The Global Influence of Song Dynasty Ceramics
- Jun Ware: A Splash of Color in the Song Dynasty
- Guan Ware: The Mystery of Imperial Ceramics
The forms, glazes, and decorative motifs of Song Dynasty ceramics often reflect a deep appreciation for nature, with potters drawing inspiration from the natural world. The incorporation of natural elements is a clear indicator of the importance of nature in Tang artistic thought.
Celadon, a jade-like green glazed ceramic, is a hallmark of Song Dynasty pottery, especially Longquan celadon, known for its pure color, smooth texture, and elegant forms, and also includes distinctive styles like that of Yaozhou.
Song Dynasty ceramics have had a profound influence on ceramic traditions around the world, with their beauty, elegance, and technical sophistication inspiring potters in many different cultures. The influence of Song wares has been felt throughout Asia, Europe, and even the Americas, and this speaks to the global importance of Chinese ceramics.
Jun ware, produced in kilns in Henan province, is distinguished by its vibrant, opalescent glazes, which range in color from sky blue to lavender, crimson, and even deep purple. Unlike the more restrained celadons and monochromes of the Song Dynasty, Jun ware is known for its dramatic splashes of color and bold, expressive forms. The vibrant colour palette makes them stand out from the more muted forms of Song Dynasty pottery.
Guan ware, rare imperial ceramics of the Southern Song, are characterized by thick, crackled glazes in shades of gray, blue, or green, understated forms, and an enduring sense of mystery surrounding their production and kilns.