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While we have touched on geometric patterns, let's focus on the significance of geometric designs in Ming ceramics beyond the creation of simple repeating patterns. Yuan potters often incorporated geometric designs to create structure, balance, and a sense of order within their decorative schemes and the use of these types of patterns often served to complement and also to highlight the overall design choices of any given piece. The use of complex and carefully constructed geometric patterns, often used to frame other decorative elements, added a sense of visual harmony and also a degree of visual complexity to pieces from this period. These patterns were used on a wide range of pieces, often as a counterpoint to more organic or naturalistic motifs. The combination of simple geometric patterns with more elaborate designs demonstrated the sophistication of Ming potters in their overall design sensibilities. The ongoing use of geometric forms demonstrates the lasting appeal of simple patterns and also the power of mathematical principles to create beauty and balance in visual art. |
Tag : Ming geometric design, Chinese pottery, ancient patterns, structured art, visual balance
While emperors are often credited with shaping artistic tastes, it's important to acknowledge the influence of powerful court eunuchs during the Ming Dynasty on ceramic production. These figures, often close to the imperial family, could wield significant power and influence, and their preferences sometimes shaped the types of pieces that were created during this period.
While underglaze blue and overglaze enamels were often seen in separate styles, Ming potters also developed techniques for combining both methods on the same piece. These combined techniques demonstrate the ingenuity and versatility of potters during this time, and also the ways in which they sought to explore the interplay of different design techniques.
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.
While previously mentioned, it is helpful to revisit the specific techniques that were used to produce a turquoise-blue style glaze in the Ming era. While not as common as other colors, some Ming potters achieved beautiful and unique shades of turquoise blue, showcasing their technical skill and experimental approach to glaze development.
"Kraak" porcelain, a term derived from the Dutch word for a type of ship, refers to a specific style of late Ming blue and white porcelain that was produced specifically for export, and these pieces are an important example of the cross cultural exchange that occurred through trade and commerce.