Oriental art boasts a rich and captivating history, characterized by its intricate craftsmanship and exquisite aesthetic beauty. Among the various forms of classical oriental art, doucai colored plates have undeniably captivated the hearts of art collectors, artists, and enthusiasts alike. These plates are true artistic masterpieces, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colors that are both visually appealing and culturally significant. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating process of creating doucai colored plates, exploring the meticulous techniques involved in their production, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind these remarkable works.
This initial step: shape the porcelain
The technique of doucai, which translates to "contrasting colors" in Chinese, originated during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and has since become renowned for its beauty and intricacy. Creating a doucai colored plate begins with shaping the porcelain. Talented artisans employ either a potter's wheel or shape the clay by hand to achieve the desired form and proportions.
This initial step requires precision and attention to detail, as the foundation of the final artwork is established during this stage. The artisans work with clay, carefully molding and sculpting it, ensuring that it is symmetrical and balanced. They take into account various factors such as the size, shape, and functionality of the plate in order to create a harmonious starting point for the decorative process.
Next, high temperature firing
Once the porcelain shape is perfected, it is left to dry thoroughly before undergoing the first firing in a kiln. This firing, known as the bisque firing, is a crucial step in the production of doucai colored plates, as it strengthens the porcelain and renders it ready for further decoration. The porcelain piece is placed in the kiln, where it is subjected to high temperatures during the firing process. These high temperatures cause the clay to harden and undergo chemical changes, ultimately transforming it into durable ceramic material. The firing also eliminates any remaining water or impurities from the clay, ensuring that the porcelain achieves its optimal strength and porosity. Once the bisque firing is complete, the piece is carefully removed from the kiln and allowed to cool before moving on to the next stage.
Following the bisque firing, the next step involves applying the underglaze, which serves as the foundation for the intricate designs seen on doucai colored plates. Artisans skilled in the art of ceramic painting carefully paint thin lines and intricate details onto the surface of the porcelain using mineral-based pigments. These pigments are often derived from materials such as cobalt, iron, and copper, which produce a range of vibrant colors when fired. The pigments are mixed with water or an appropriate medium to achieve the desired consistency, allowing for smooth brushstrokes and precise detailing. The artisans' steady hand and careful attention to detail are crucial during this stage, as they must ensure the accuracy and precision of their brushwork. The underglaze not only provides the base colors for the design but also helps to enhance the overall visual appeal and depth of the final piece.
Once the underglaze painting is completed, the porcelain is fired once again in the kiln to fix the underglaze colors and prepare it for the application of the overglaze enamels. This firing is vital, as it ensures the underglaze colors become permanent and resistant to fading or smudging. During this firing, the temperature is carefully controlled to achieve the optimal conditions for color stability and fusion.
The third stage: soft colors
The third stage of creating doucai colored plates involves the application of overglaze enamels, also known as the "soft colors." These enamels are used to create a contrasting effect on the surface of the porcelain, adding depth and vibrancy to the design. Skilled craftspeople meticulously fill in the desired areas of the design with the overglaze enamels. The enamels, made from combinations of mineral oxides, are mixed with a medium such as oil or water to achieve the right consistency for painting. Using a fine brush, the artisan precisely applies the colors, paying careful attention to detail and ensuring an even distribution of the enamels. This process requires a delicate touch and a thorough understanding of color harmony and balance.
After the application of the overglaze enamels, the porcelain piece undergoes a final firing. This firing is crucial as it allows the enamels to fuse with the porcelain surface, creating a smooth and lustrous finish. The temperature and duration of the firing are carefully controlled to ensure that the colors remain vibrant and the piece does not crack or deform. The firing process requires great skill and experience, as slight variations in temperature can lead to color distortion or cause the porcelain to crack or break. Skilled artisans with years of experience have a deep understanding of the firing process and are adept at ensuring that the colors and design of the doucai colored plate remain intact.
Tight control of the whole process:
Throughout the entire process, temperature control plays a crucial role in achieving the desired outcome. From the initial bisque firing to the final firing of the overglaze enamels, maintaining precise temperatures is essential to preserve the integrity of the artwork. Even slight variations in temperature can impact the colors, causing them to fade or change hue, or affect the overall structural integrity of the piece. The artisans carefully monitor the kiln during each firing, making adjustments as needed to ensure optimal conditions for the porcelain's transformation.
The final result of this intricate process is a doucai colored plate that exhibits a harmonious blend of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. These plates often feature delicate floral motifs, mythical beasts, or scenes inspired by traditional Chinese folklore. The contrasting colors create a visual harmony, with the underglaze serving as the background and the overglaze enamels adding depth and brilliance to the design. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail evident in each doucai colored plate make them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
In conclusion, the creation of doucai colored plates is a testament to the rich tradition of Oriental artistry and craftsmanship. From shaping the porcelain to applying the underglaze and overglaze enamels, the process requires skill, patience, and a deep understanding of the materials and techniques involved. Each step, from the initial firing to the final firing, relies on precise temperature control to achieve the desired results. The result is a stunning piece of art that not only showcases the artistic vision of the creator but also represents a culmination of centuries of cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Doucai colored plates truly exemplify the beauty and mastery of Oriental art.
