The inkstone (yàn) is a vital part of Xieyi painting, influencing the quality and texture of ink, and serving as an object of both practical use and beauty, representing a key part of the ritual of painting and connecting the artist to tradition.
This article explores the subtle but skillful use of light and shadow in Gongbi painting, highlighting the use of color gradations, brushstrokes, and how these techniques contribute to creating a sense of depth, volume, atmosphere, and enhance the overall impact of the artwork.
This article highlights the importance of the brush grip in Running Script, explaining how a proper grip allows for precise control, natural movement, and a free flow of expression.
This article highlights the importance of the inkstone in Running Script practice, showcasing its role in ink preparation, the meditative process of grinding ink, and its connection to the tradition of Chinese calligraphy.
While we've mentioned precious materials, it is worth delving deeper into the use of gilding on Ming ceramics. The application of gold leaf or gold paint was used on some Ming Dynasty ceramics to add a touch of luxury and visual opulence. Gilding was often used to highlight decorative elements and to add to the sense of refinement that is a key element of Ming dynasty porcelain production.
This article explores the use of bronze in ancient Chinese maritime navigation, highlighting its role in creating compasses, sighting devices, and other instruments, and demonstrating how these tools were used to facilitate long-distance sea travel.
This article explores the use of bronze in ancient Chinese cartography, highlighting its role in creating surveying tools, mapping instruments, and its connection to the accurate measurement and mapping of the ancient landscape.
This article explores the use of bronze in ancient Chinese maritime activities, highlighting its role in creating ship fittings, navigational tools, and its impact on the development of trade routes and maritime exploration.
This article focuses on the ding (鼎) in ancient Chinese culture, exploring its role in ritual practices, its symbolism of power and authority, and its continuing legacy as an iconic symbol of ancient China.
This article focuses on the ritual vessels of the Shang Dynasty, exploring their role in ancestral rites, their symbolic designs including the taotie, and highlighting the remarkable craftsmanship of the bronze workers.
Discusses the use of gold leaf in Gongbi painting, its application techniques, symbolism, and contribution to the opulence and visual impact of the art.
Song Dynasty ceramics employed various subtle decorative techniques like carving, incising, molding, and impressing, adding texture and visual interest while allowing the simple forms and glazes to remain the focus.