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Imperial Chinese Ceramics of the 15th Century
Noted for their refined bodies and elegant shapes, porcelains made during the reigns of the Xuande (1426-1435) and Chenghua (1465-1487) emperors are ranked among the finest examples of imperial Chinese wares. Many of the characteristics of 15th-century porcelains result from increased imperial interest in ceramics. Ceramic production during this time is noted for the widespread use of reign marks to date pieces, the development and refinement of techniques for making and decorating wares, and the creation and variation of designs.Reign marks are inscriptions that identify the name of the dynasty and the reign name of an emperor. (Emperors' given names are rarely mentioned in Chinese history and are not used in inscriptions.) While reign marks occasionally appear on porcelains produced in the first quarter of the 15th century during the rule of the Yongle emperor, they became widespread under Xuande's reign, and by the mid- to late 15th century they were often used to distinguish ceramics made exclusively for the court. Xuande reign marks were variously written on the interiors, exteriors, or bases of bowls, dishes, and other vessels. After the Xuande era, reign marks are almost invariably inscribed on the base of the ceramic. |
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