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While black glazes were used in earlier dynasties, Ming potters achieved a new level of technical mastery in producing deep, lustrous black glazes, often using these glazes to highlight specific forms and decorative elements. This shows that potters during the Ming era were still refining and innovating on previously existing techniques. The consistent and even application of black glazes across large ceramic surfaces, achieving a deep, velvety texture, demonstrates the technical skill of Ming potters. Black glaze was often used to create a striking contrast with the white porcelain body or with other colored glazes and patterns, demonstrating a keen understanding of the visual power of colour contrast. The subtle variations in texture and tone that were often seen in black glazes added to the overall visual complexity and beauty of the piece, and subtle variations in tone demonstrate the degree of control that potters had over the firing process. The technical control of firing temperature and glaze composition was essential for creating the smooth, consistent, and rich black glazes that are a hallmark of some types of Ming Dynasty ceramics. |
Tag : Ming black glaze, Chinese pottery techniques, ancient glazes, dark ceramics, technical skills
While we’ve discussed white wares, it’s worthwhile to focus on the technical development of white glazes during the Ming Dynasty. Potters devoted considerable effort to refining the techniques for creating pure, white glazes that emphasized the beauty of the porcelain body, and the desire to produce pure white glazes meant that potters were constantly experimenting with materials and firing methods.
While Buddhism was a major influence, Daoist symbolism also appeared on some Ming Dynasty ceramics, reflecting the influence of this ancient Chinese philosophy on daily life. The Daoist symbols that appear on these pieces are an important aspect of the overall visual language that was being used during this time.
Beyond plays, it's worth exploring the influence of Ming Dynasty novels on the ceramics. The rise of popular novels during the Ming Dynasty had a subtle but noticeable influence on the types of scenes, characters, and stories that were sometimes depicted on ceramic pieces. The novels of the era were a major element of Chinese culture and their influence is apparent in many of the artistic forms that were popular at this time.
The period between the Xuande and Chenghua reigns (1436-1464), often called the "interregnum," is increasingly viewed with nuance, as recent research reveals continued high-quality production despite political and economic disruptions.
We've discussed literati taste, but let's focus on the specific motifs associated with scholarly life that often appeared on Ming Dynasty ceramics. The inclusion of these elements demonstrates the ongoing respect for learning, intellectual pursuits, and the natural world that was central to scholarly thought at the time.