Yuan Ceramics and the Production of "Shufu" Wares
|
"Shufu" wares, produced in Jingdezhen during the Yuan Dynasty, are known for their delicate white porcelain, often with subtle underglaze decorations in a pale blue or creamy white. These pieces were often made for the Imperial court or for other high-ranking officials and scholars and they demonstrate the continued importance of high quality white porcelain.  The name "Shufu" (樞府) refers to the Privy Council, highlighting the connection of these pieces to the Yuan court, and this connection between pottery production and government patronage demonstrates the importance of the imperial court during the Yuan era.  "Shufu" wares were often decorated with subtle underglaze patterns, such as floral motifs or auspicious symbols, which were created using fine brushwork and carefully selected materials. These pieces are prized both for the quality of the clay that was used and also for their beauty and the artistry of the designs.  The smooth, translucent glaze on Shufu wares enhances the delicate texture and pure white color of the porcelain, creating a sense of refinement and sophistication. The delicacy of the glaze was designed to emphasize the overall beauty of the piece. "Shufu" wares represent an important and distinct style of Yuan Dynasty porcelain, reflecting the refined tastes of the Yuan elite. These pieces are important elements of the overall study of pottery production at the time, and are a testament to the skill and dedication of Tang artisans. |
Tag : Yuan Shufu ware, Chinese white porcelain, Jingdezhen pottery, subtle decoration, porcelain history
Related information
- The Rise of Blue and White: Yuan Dynasty Porcelain's Groundbreaking Innovation
- Comparing Yuan Dynasty Porcelain with Ceramics of the Song Dynasty
- The Development of the Cobalt Underglaze Technique
- Yuan Dynasty Porcelain as a Reflection of Mongol Rule and Identity
- Yuan Dynasty Porcelain as a Source of Inspiration for Contemporary Design
The Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) witnessed the groundbreaking introduction of blue and white porcelain. This article explores its robust forms, innovative designs, and lasting global impact, highlighting its revolutionary significance in the history of ceramics.
This article compares and contrasts Yuan Dynasty porcelain with that of the Song Dynasty, highlighting differences in style, technique, form, and the emergence of blue and white as a key distinguishing factor.
The Yuan Dynasty mastered the cobalt underglaze technique, a pivotal ceramic innovation that allowed for intricate, controlled blue designs on porcelain, impacting later Chinese ceramics and global techniques.
This article analyzes Yuan Dynasty porcelain as a reflection of Mongol rule and identity, exploring how the blending of Chinese and Mongol cultural elements shaped the forms, designs, and decorative motifs of the era.
This article explores the enduring influence of Yuan Dynasty porcelain on contemporary design, highlighting its inspiration for patterns, color palettes, forms, and shapes across a variety of disciplines including fashion, graphic design and product design.