|
We've touched on Wanli before, but it's useful to revisit the significance of his period specifically in relation to trade. The Wanli reign (1572-1620) saw the continued expansion of the Chinese porcelain trade, and many pieces produced during this time were specifically designed to meet the demands of export markets around the world. This period of high volume pottery production was key to the economic prosperity of the region and demonstrates the importance of pottery in international commerce. The increasing global demand for Chinese porcelain during the Wanli period led to the large-scale production of ceramics at Jingdezhen and other kilns, and the scale of production during this period was unprecedented and it demonstrates the importance of global trade in shaping the development of Chinese pottery. Wanli-era export ceramics often feature a unique blend of Chinese and foreign decorative styles and are especially useful for understanding the blending of cultures at this time. The success of the Wanli porcelain trade underscores the interconnectedness of global economies and artistic traditions during the late Ming period. The study of Wanli export wares provides valuable insights into the cross-cultural exchanges that took place along trade routes at this time, and also demonstrates the lasting impact of Chinese pottery production on artistic styles in other parts of the world. |
Tag : Ming Wanli trade, Chinese export, global commerce, pottery markets, ancient trade
While blue was dominant, let's delve into the specific technical challenges and achievements in using other colors in underglaze decoration during the Ming Dynasty. Although less common, the use of underglaze colors other than blue demonstrates the experimentation and technical skill of Ming potters in their use of a wide range of materials and colours.
While we’ve touched on yellow, it’s useful to explore the technical aspects of creating high-quality yellow enamels on Ming Dynasty ceramics. The vibrant and consistent yellow glazes that were a hallmark of some Ming ceramics often required a specific combination of lead oxides, iron oxides, and other materials.
"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.
While the production of Jian ware declined in earlier periods, its aesthetic influence and functional qualities continued to be appreciated and, sometimes, adapted in Ming Dynasty ceramics, particularly in tea bowls. These types of pieces continued to be prized by tea enthusiasts, which demonstrates the enduring importance and impact of these forms, even centuries after their first production.
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.