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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 literati preference for understated beauty and natural forms can be seen in some Ming monochromes, porcelains, and those that featured simple designs that are reminiscent of classical painting and poetry. The subtle and restrained decorative elements that were often found on pieces from this era were an important element of the overall aesthetic appeal of these types of pieces. The emphasis on craftsmanship, intellectual engagement, and artistic skill that was central to literati culture also influenced the way that pottery was valued and appreciated during this time. The influence of literati taste on Ming ceramics highlights the complex interplay of art, culture, and intellectual values during the Ming Dynasty and its lasting legacy. |
Tag : Ming literati taste, Chinese scholarly art, refined pottery, simple forms, elegant designs
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.
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.
While blue and white dominated, the Ming Dynasty also saw the development and refinement of "five-color" wares (wucai), which employed a range of vibrant overglaze enamels, including red, green, yellow, and aubergine, often used in combination with underglaze blue. These pieces demonstrate a more colourful and decorative style of pottery production that became increasingly popular during this period.
While we've discussed the techniques themselves, it's worth focusing on the legacy of underglaze blue specifically during the Ming. The widespread use of underglaze blue on Ming Dynasty porcelain, which was both refined and innovated at this time, had a lasting impact on the subsequent development of Chinese and global ceramic traditions, and the enduring influence of these techniques can still be seen throughout the world today.
While iron-red and black are more common, Ming Dynasty potters also explored the use of iron to create a variety of brown glazes, ranging from light tan to deep, almost chocolate brown tones. These variations in tone were the result of different firing conditions and glaze application techniques. The pieces made with these techniques often demonstrate the versatility of the materials that were used during the Ming period.