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While Blanc de Chine is most closely associated with later periods, the foundations for this type of white porcelain were laid during the late Ming Dynasty. Potters in Dehua, Fujian province, began to develop the unique clay bodies and techniques that would eventually give rise to the famous Blanc de Chine wares, and these early examples of white pottery production are an important part of the overall development of this particular style. These early forms of Dehua white porcelain were characterized by their pure white body, translucent glaze, and simple, elegant forms. The exploration of the properties of kaolin clays in the Dehua region was a key element in the development of this type of pottery, and the technical innovation of the time period is a key part of the overall development of these styles. The smooth texture and milky-white color of these pieces were highly prized, setting them apart from other types of Ming ceramics. These early examples of Blanc de Chine production laid the groundwork for the widespread popularity of this unique form of pottery in subsequent periods. |
Tag : Ming Blanc de Chine, Chinese white porcelain, Dehua kilns, ancient techniques, translucent pottery
While we’ve touched on Islamic influence, it is worth focusing on the specific influence of Islamic calligraphy on Ming ceramics. The flowing lines, geometric patterns, and stylized forms of Islamic calligraphy sometimes appeared on Ming Dynasty pieces, and demonstrate the cross-cultural exchange of artistic techniques and design elements that was occurring during this period.
Ming Dynasty porcelain often includes marks and inscriptions, such as reign marks, potters' marks, and dedication marks, which offer vital information about the origin, dating, and purpose of these ceramics.
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 we've discussed the literati, it's important to look at how their taste was specifically reflected in Ming ceramics. The refined tastes of the literati, the scholarly and artistic elite of the Ming Dynasty, continued to influence the development of certain types of ceramics, particularly those that emphasized elegance, simplicity, and a connection to nature. The preferences of the educated classes were often reflected in the design elements that were chosen by potters at this time.
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.