|
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 underglaze blue was a core component of many Ming styles, some potters experimented with combining underglaze blue with sgraffito, a technique where designs are created by scratching through a layer of slip to reveal a contrasting colour beneath, and this combination of techniques adds both depth and visual complexity to the overall design scheme.
While Buddhism was a major influence, it's worth specifically looking at how other religious imagery appeared in Ming ceramics. Beyond Buddhist symbols, Ming Dynasty ceramics sometimes featured motifs and figures from Daoism, Confucianism, and even popular folk religions, showcasing the complex religious landscape of the time, and the ways that different traditions were often integrated into common and everyday styles and practices.
We have touched on Daoist influence, but let's focus specifically on the representation of immortals in Ming Dynasty ceramics. The depiction of Daoist immortals, with their distinctive attributes and symbolic associations, provides insights into the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the time, and also demonstrates a key element in the religious landscape of Ming China.
The later Ming Dynasty (1522-1644) saw significant diversity in ceramic production, with new colors, glazes, and techniques introduced, alongside a thriving export trade and varied decorative styles reflecting changing tastes.
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.