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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
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 we've discussed black glazes, let's examine the specific use of black as a background in Ming ceramics. This technique, where black was used as a backdrop to highlight other colors or decorative elements, was a popular approach to design during this period, and it shows the ways that colour could be used to highlight certain parts of a piece of pottery while also creating a dramatic and striking visual impact.
While Longquan celadon production reached its peak in earlier dynasties, the influence of Longquan kilns was still felt during the Ming Dynasty. While not the central focus of production, the styles and techniques of the Longquan kilns continued to be used and adapted by Ming potters.
"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.
While we’ve discussed white wares, it’s worthwhile to focus on the technical development of white glazes during the Ming Dynasty. Potters devoted considerable effort to refining the techniques for creating pure, white glazes that emphasized the beauty of the porcelain body, and the desire to produce pure white glazes meant that potters were constantly experimenting with materials and firing methods.