Blue and white porcelain is one of the most iconic ceramic traditions in Chinese history. These pieces are renowned for their elegant designs, intricate patterns, and rich historical significance. Each era has its own unique characteristics, reflected in both the artistic styles and the inscriptions found on the bottom of the porcelain. Blue and white porcelain can generally be categorized into five types: chronological, commemorative, tangible, tribute, and decorative.
The "year marking" on blue and white porcelain refers to the method used to indicate the age or period of the piece. This could be done through writing, engraving, or printing. In ancient China, such markings were often based on the reign of an emperor or the traditional Chinese calendar system. During the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty, year markings began to appear more frequently on blue and white ceramics. The calligraphy was graceful and fluid, often accompanied by floral motifs like lotus petals on the sides.
Each dynasty had its own distinct style. Xuande’s porcelain was known for its refined craftsmanship, Chenghua for its delicate brushwork, Hongzhi for its elegance, Zhengde for its boldness, and Jiajing for its rich colors. In the Qing Dynasty, Kangxi’s pieces were neat and vibrant, with bright blue and white glazes. Qianlong-era porcelain featured strong, confident brushstrokes and intricate designs. Modern blue and white porcelain, especially from the Jiangxi Porcelain Company, often includes English inscriptions like “CHINA,†symbolizing the global export of Chinese ceramics. Some pieces even feature casual, handwritten marks like “Da Xian Nian†(Great Next Year).
"Ji Yan" refers to auspicious inscriptions commonly found on folk blue and white porcelain. These words, such as “Fu Shou Kang Ning†(Good Health and Longevity) or “Wan Fu Tong Tong†(Prosperity for All), reflect people's hopes for a happy and prosperous life. The calligraphy is usually lively and expressive, often written in a single stroke with a natural flow.
Ceramic collectors also appreciate the "Hall Name" inscriptions, which are elegant names or titles used to denote private collections. Examples include “Bath Book House,†“Ruo Ruo Collection,†and “Bai Yuzhai.†These names add a personal touch and increase the collectible value of the piece.
Finally, there are the "Praise Inscriptions," which express admiration for the art of ceramics. Phrases like “Jade Baozhen†(Treasure of Jade) or “Changjiang Meiyu†(Beautiful Rain over the Yangtze) convey deep appreciation for the beauty and craftsmanship of the porcelain. The term “Jade†has a long history, often regarded as the elder brother of porcelain, with porcelain being smoother and whiter than jade itself.
Lastly, the decorative patterns on blue and white porcelain are simple yet meaningful. Common motifs include the “Eight Immortals,†“Bogutu,†and “Eight Auspicious Symbols.†The “Dried Beans†pattern, resembling a diamond-shaped frame, is similar to modern architectural structures and is often associated with folk workshops, sometimes referred to as “flowers.â€
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