Chinese porcelain has been a hallmark of Chinese culture for centuries, exported far and wide to Europe and America through trade, captivating European royalty and nobility. Why has Chinese porcelain been so popular worldwide? What makes antique porcelain so beautiful? How can one appreciate its beauty? Many people may not fully understand.
From what I know, many friends share my experience. When we visit museums and see various types of porcelain, we often don't know how to appreciate them, merely knowing they are highly valuable. But what defines beauty in objects? By what standards do we measure them? Many times, it's puzzling! I believe appreciating beauty requires learning and having guidelines. As someone passionate about collecting antique porcelain, let me analyze and discuss this issue for everyone!
To outline, we can interpret the appreciation of antique porcelain from various perspectives such as its shape, craftsmanship (including utility), color and decoration, and painting (aesthetic).
*Utility*
Porcelain was a marvelous invention and creation of ancient people. Firstly, the most important aspect of porcelain's functionality is its practicality, such as cups and bowls. The most basic function of these utensils is to contain food, so the most important qualities are convenience, durability, lightweight, waterproofness, and easy cleaning, among others. Additionally, the design should be rational, conforming to ergonomic principles! Bowls with round mouths are preferable for eating, while those with flared mouths are more decorative than practical!
*Aesthetic of Shape*
The aesthetic of Chinese porcelain is often associated with its shape. Many early porcelain pieces were modeled after bronze ware, such as the Song dynasty's jade cong-shaped vase, which was actually a ceremonial vessel! In literati society, natural elements were revered, and often gourds and fruits were used to express admiration for the beauty of nature. By finding inspiration from nature, and then artisticizing it, a piece of antique porcelain can be effortlessly created, appearing as if by magic.
Representative works of aesthetic shape include plum vases and jade pot springs. These vessels not only serve a practical purpose but also have simple and natural shapes, with lustrous glazes and beautiful, warm colors, making them irresistible to hold.
*Aesthetic of Viewing*
The essence of appreciating porcelain lies in its immortal shapes, natural patterns, and pleasing colors. Everyone knows that the basic way to "appreciate porcelain" is through vases. When admiring them, we should pay attention to their height, balanced lines and proportions, attractive designs, sleek decorations, and smooth, jade-like glazes. These beautiful qualities all require outstanding craftsmanship to achieve! Especially for official kiln porcelain, the authorities spared no expense, spending human and material resources, all aimed at making viewers' hearts flutter and resonate!
I propose a representative work: the Song official kiln "string pattern vase," with its serene shape, multiple glazes, lustrous colors, and three mysterious patterns on the neck are particularly attractive!
Despite society's high development, people still need to integrate with nature to find the source of beauty. That's why we use Jianzhan teacups when drinking tea, as their color matches that of nature. Relaxing with friends while enjoying a melon-shaped green and white tea pot, we elegantly taste the essence of life—what could be more delightful!
I must emphasize that appreciating antique porcelain should not be based solely on one criterion; rather, it should be comprehensive, considering all the above points. However, I believe that the shape, decoration, and color of porcelain are the main sources of beauty, and I'm sure many will agree!
Beauty comes from nature, but the ability to appreciate it can be enhanced through learning. So, I encourage everyone to look more, touch real objects, and experience the creativity of artisanship. With time, the more we understand, the better we can appreciate the beauty of antique porcelain!
"The world has great beauty without words." Our country's porcelain is renowned worldwide for its exquisite qualities. As members of the Chinese nation, it's necessary to elevate our overall appreciation ability! Do you all agree, my friends?
Author
Mr. Robert T Li graduated from the Economics Department of the University of Hong Kong and has served as the Head of Liability Insurance in the Greater China region for an international insurance company. He has a passion for traditional Chinese culture and enjoys collecting art. He is actively involved in promoting awareness of traditional Chinese culture, music, and art among young people. He can be contacted at litaichai@gmail.com.
Uploaded on 2024.4.13