Chinese ceramics have a history spanning more than ten thousand years, reflecting a rich cultural and technical evolution that has shaped the ages. From the earliest pieces of the Yangshao culture in the Neolithic Age to the refined porcelains of the Qing Dynasty, Chinese ceramics are a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship.
- Beginnings and Early Evolution (c. 5000–221 BC): During the Yangshao culture (c. 5000–3000 BC), decorated ceramics were created, and the Longshan culture (c. 3000–1900 BC) introduced black ware, laying the foundations for what would become a millennia-long tradition. In the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BC), the first ash-glazed wares, precursors to celadon, were developed. During the Warring States period (c. 475–221 BC), a large quantity of grey ware was produced, with notable examples such as the terracotta warriors of Emperor Qin Shihuangdi (259–210 BC), representing one of the most impressive achievements in ancient ceramics.
Neolithic Banshan funerary urn, 3000 BC.
- Diversity and Sophistication in the Tang Dynasty (618-907): The Tang Dynasty is known for its diverse and sophisticated pottery, influenced by a blend of cultures. During this period, large quantities of decorated pottery and tri-colored glazed figurines and dishes were produced. In northern China, the production of white porcelain, begun at the Xing kilns in the Sui Dynasty (581-618), also began at the Ding kilns. The Changsha kilns produced jars and bowls decorated with underglaze copper and iron, some of which were widely exported, demonstrating the importance of international trade.
Polychrome porcelain figure, Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
- Perfection and Experimentation in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644): During the Ming Dynasty, pottery reached an unprecedented level of perfection. The official kiln, or yuqichang, was established in Jingdezhen to produce pottery intended exclusively for court use. During the Hongwu reign (1368-1398), a shortage of cobalt blue due to a ban on foreign trade led to the development of pottery painted with red undercopper glaze. With the resumption of cobalt blue imports during the Yongle reign (1403-1424) and experimentation with techniques during the Xuande reign (1426-1435), pottery production flourished. By the reign of Chenghua (1465–1487), ceramics had reached a high degree of perfection, exemplified by the fine bowls and small plates, as well as by the doucai technique, in which motifs were outlined in underglaze blue and colored with overglaze decoration.
- The Heyday of Ceramics in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912): During the Qing Dynasty, ceramics reached their technical and aesthetic peak, especially under the reigns of Kangxi (1662-1722), Yongzheng (1723-1735), and Qianlong (1736-1795). Yuqichang was resumed during the Kangxi reign, producing more sophisticated pottery for imperial use. During the Yongzheng and Qianlong reigns, production techniques were further refined, becoming noted for their elegance and sophistication. The Qing Dynasty also saw the continuation of the export tradition, with high-quality Chinese ceramics influencing ceramic design in other parts of the world.
Chinese vase in Yongzheng style, a style developed during the Qing dynasty.
Chinese ceramics are not only a testament to the craftsmanship of centuries but also a reflection of the rich cultural history and multicultural influences that have shaped their development. Exploring the history of Chinese ceramics is a journey into a fascinating narrative of art, culture, and tradition, one that continues to inspire admiration and study to this day. Each piece of ceramics is a fragment of history that tells the story of the evolution of one of humanity's oldest and most prestigious art forms.
