Auction Catalog of Folk Porcelain: Qing Dynasty Porcelain

Author: Tie Yuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-09-01
Features: The style of colored painting on porcelain in the Qing Dynasty differs from that of the Ming Dynasty. Most of the patterns in Ming Dynasty colored painting were inspired by brocade, so antique color was mostly "patterns." The second type was realistic imitation of ancient themes, freehand painting based on specific subjects, such as folk tales or plays. Some were influenced by contemporary novels, woodblock illustrations, or renowned painters. In contrast, the Qing Dynasty's decorative designs on vessels were closely related to the shapes of the wares, as well as the political atmosphere and social influences of the time. For example, there were imperial-commissioned works like the "Poetry of Farming and Weaving," which led to the frequent depiction of weaving patterns on items like pen holders and large vases. Additionally, the popularity of the "Four Wangs" (Four Masters of the Ming Dynasty) in painting led to the appearance of scenes like fishing, woodcutting, farming, and studying on wares. These designs combined the painting techniques of the Four Wangs with influences from theater, novels, and woodblock prints, giving rise to "swordsman and horseman" figures. The Eight Immortals, a popular theme in society, were also reflected in porcelain as "The Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea."
Due to the new changes in painting style and brushwork during the Qing Dynasty, the techniques used in porcelain painting also evolved. When depicting human faces, artists adopted realistic methods, while flowers and plants were rendered using shading techniques. This resulted in vivid colors with clear contrasts between light and shadow, as well as variations in thickness and depth, marking a significant advancement in painting techniques. After the Kangxi era, the style of porcelain painting gradually aligned with that of paper painting, with inscriptions, calligraphy, and captions fully adopting the paper painting style.
During the Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong periods, porcelain production remained centered in Jingdezhen, with significant improvements in both quality and quantity. The porcelain industry had reached its zenith.