Chinese Ceramic Inscriptions Through the Dynasties (Volume 1 and 2)

Author: Qiao Qianli
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features:
Inscription: The original meaning refers to the carved or inscribed texts on ancient bronze vessels and ritual objects. In the Book of Han·Record of Court Sacrifices, Part 2, it is stated: "Now this tripod is small and has inscriptions, it is not suitable for presentation in the ancestral hall." Yan Shigu notes: "Inscription () means carving; record () means remembering." In addition to Yan’s explanation of carving and recording, the Comprehensive Collection of Language offers three other interpretations:
1. Inscription () refers to recessed carvings (negative characters), while record () refers to protruding carvings (positive characters).
2. Inscription is on the outside, while record is on the inside.
3. Patterns serve as inscription (), while seal engravings serve as record ().
Since the inscriptions on ceramics include not only recessed and protruding carvings but also writing, seals, embossed decorations, etc., the inscriptions on ceramic wares actually encompass all types of symbols. These symbols vary greatly depending on the era, production environment, and purpose. In particular, the variety of inscriptions is rich and diverse, including not only chronological and sexagenary cycle inscriptions but also potters’ marks, studio marks, functional marks, poetic inscriptions, auspicious phrases, symbolic marks, post-added inscriptions, and imitated inscriptions, among others.
In terms of script styles, structural arrangements, and placement, the inscriptions are equally diverse and fascinating. Studying inscriptions on ceramic wares throughout history is not only a key basis for identifying and researching ancient ceramics but also reveals the evolving pulse of history. It elevates the aesthetic appreciation and collection of ceramics. This book compiles most of the inscriptions from ancient to modern ceramics, and its included illustrations are the most extensive among similar publications.