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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. The mastery of overglaze enamels, particularly in the development of "doucai" and "wucai" wares, represents a major step forward in ceramic technology. The skills and knowledge that were developed during this period would be highly influential for many generations of pottery artists. The refinement of underglaze blue painting techniques, which lead to pieces with a range of tones and colours, continues to be admired for its artistic and technical achievements. The use of carefully controlled firing techniques, along with the use of different materials and methods, is essential to the overall quality of pieces that were produced during the Ming period. The enduring legacy of Ming technical innovation can be seen in the continuing popularity of Ming styles and the ways that the technical breakthroughs of this period continue to influence contemporary pottery production techniques. |
Tag : Ming technical innovation, Chinese pottery, ancient techniques, ceramic skill, porcelain history
While iron oxide was key to other colours, the use of "iron rust" glaze, which is characterized by its dark brown or reddish-brown tone with subtle flecks and variations in texture, added a different type of visual texture to Ming Dynasty ceramics. Pieces with this type of glaze demonstrate the skill of Tang potters and their exploration of different colours and effects.
The Ming Dynasty was a time of significant advancement in porcelain production, with potters making technical improvements in their materials, glazing, and firing techniques. The pieces that were made during this time demonstrate a new level of quality and a consistent ability to produce extremely high-quality works in a variety of different styles and techniques.
While we’ve discussed Song influence, let's focus on the specific ways that forms from the Song Dynasty were adapted into Ming ceramics. Ming potters often drew inspiration from classic Song forms, such as the "meiping" vase, "yuhuchun" vases and various types of bowls and dishes, often incorporating these into new and unique types of Ming ceramic pieces.
While cobalt blue was dominant, Ming Dynasty potters also explored and refined the use of iron-red glazes. These glazes, characterized by their warm reddish-brown tones and smooth, often glossy surfaces, became an important element in both the decorative and symbolic vocabulary of Ming pottery production. The use of these types of colours is a testament to the technical skill and artistic sensibility of potters during this era.
The Ming Dynasty, despite its focus on continuity with earlier traditions, also saw significant innovations in ceramic production, leading to the development of new techniques, materials, and decorative styles that would shape the future of Chinese porcelain. The legacy of these pieces is still visible today and these show the innovative spirit of the Ming potters who created them.