In the vast array of Ceramic categories, the decorative techniques used on purple Clay pots can be considered the most numerous and richly varied.
Some enthusiasts may find their pots attractive but struggle to articulate what makes them so. Today, we will share several decorative techniques with you.
Note: Carving, as a separate category, is not covered in this article.
Twisted Clay
This technique involves combining two or more differently colored purple clay materials through kneading or layering to create a patterned effect.
The patterns produced through twisted clay are colorful and rich in texture.
Stamping
▲ Stamping
This refers to first carving the designed pattern onto a hard material template, such as wood or stone, and then pressing a clay sheet onto it.
▲ Stamping
Since the template's pattern is recessed, the resulting clay sheet is raised, as seen in previously mentioned examples like the Man Sheng Crescent Moon and Roof Tile Teapots.
Clay Painting
▲ Clay Painting
Purple clay is beaten into a paste-like consistency and painted onto the body of the pot according to the design, creating a layered effect that is dense and refined.
Applied Sculpture
▲ Applied Sculpture
This is commonly used in decorative purple clay teapots. Shapes are sculpted according to the design and then attached to the main body of the pot.
Tools are used to engrave, carve, chisel, etch, press, and draw to achieve the desired pattern.
Enamel Painting
▲ Enamel Painting
Low-temperature enamel colors are painted onto the finished purple clay pot and then fired again at over 800 degrees Celsius. The resulting pots have a translucent enamel finish that is luxurious and splendid.
Inlaid Lines
▲ Inlaid Lines
After the pot body has partially dried, a design is carved into it using a knife, creating grooves. Different colored purple clay is then rolled into lines and sequentially embedded into the grooves before being pressed firmly with the handle of a knife.
Inlaid Gold and Silver
▲ Inlaid Lines
This involves carving grooves into the raw pot body, embedding processed gold and silver wires into them after firing, and then hammering them firmly into place before smoothing with fine sandpaper.
Gold and Silver Cladding
▲ Gold Cladding
Different from inlaid gold and silver, this technique involves processing gold and silver into thin sheets, usually wrapped around the spout and handle. This serves both as decoration and a protective measure, preventing the pot from being damaged by knocks.
Additionally, there are techniques such as lacquering, gilding, and red lacquer carving, which were more commonly seen in imperial courts.
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