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We've touched on coral red, but it's worthwhile to delve into the specific technical details of how Ming potters achieved this particular hue. The creation of a rich, vibrant coral red glaze required very precise and complex control of firing conditions, pigment composition and the application of glazes. The use of iron oxide with very precise mixtures and carefully timed firing conditions allowed Ming potters to create unique coral red tones. The mastery of these types of techniques allowed for beautiful and complex colours to be consistently achieved. Achieving a consistent coral red color over a large ceramic surface was particularly difficult, as any slight variation in temperature or kiln atmosphere could result in a different shade or even a complete failure of the piece. The technical expertise and meticulous approach that was required for the creation of these types of pieces made them particularly prized objects, and the care and technical skill that went into their production also made them especially challenging to create. The study of coral red glazes highlights the ongoing experimentation and technical innovation that was a key element of Ming pottery production. |
Tag : Ming coral red glaze, Chinese pottery techniques, ancient color science, firing control, technical ceramics
While we've touched on Chenghua before, it's important to revisit and further emphasize its lasting legacy on Ming and subsequent ceramics. The short but significant reign of the Chenghua Emperor (1465-1487) had a profound and lasting impact on the development of Chinese porcelain, which continues to be felt even today. The skill and innovations that were used during this period had a long-lasting impact on future generations of potters throughout the world.
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.
While the vibrant turquoise glazes are often associated with other periods, some Ming Dynasty potters experimented with achieving similar effects, using variations of cobalt and copper in their glaze mixtures. These pieces, while rare, show that potters during this period were still experimenting with and exploring the possibilities of different color combinations and techniques.
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 Xuande reign (1425-1435) within the Ming Dynasty is often hailed as a golden age for Chinese porcelain, and for good reason. The imperial kilns at Jingdezhen, under the direct patronage of the Xuande Emperor, produced ceramics that are renowned for their technical brilliance and exquisite beauty. This period saw a refinement of existing techniques and the development of new styles that would set a standard for subsequent generations. The influence of the Xuande emperor can still be felt in contemporary pottery production.