080026 PS Fallstudie II/III: Ceramics of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) in the Global Context (2022W)

Over the course of its prolonged history, China has nurtured a sophisticated tradition in the production of ceramics, discovering the secrets of firing porcellaneous wares as well as mastering a vast range of glazes and decorative approaches to compliment them. With the advent of the Age of Discovery and the arrival of Portuguese traders in Macau during the 16th century, Chinese porcelain had immediately caught the attention of the Western audience with its fine quality and opulence. Along tea and silk, Chinese porcelain had spontaneously assumed the role as a major export commodity for the West: a lucrative trade reaching its zenith by the 18th century. Whilst igniting in a persisted period of soaring and frenzied crave for exotic styles known as ‘Chinoiserie’ in Europe; the China trade has vice-versa initiated technological and artistic innovations in the Chinese context, ushering the emergence of new palettes and decorative categories which eventually characterised official wares of the High Qing (1684-1799).

The prospective course shall therefore attempt to provide an introductory and general overview to the ceramics of Qing dynasty (1644-1911), at an era of unprecedented exchange between the East and the West. Particular focus will be paid on trade ceramics and official wares produced in Jingdezhen during the High Qing period (1684-1799). In completion of the course, participants shall be able to acquire a general understanding to the vast decorative categories, typologies, historical background and technology of Qing ceramics; as well as its cultural significance in the wider art-historical context, particularly in account of the rapid trans-Eurasian exchange over the course of the early modern period.

To achieve the desired learning outcomes and objectives in an orderly fashion, the prospective course will consist of a mixture of lectures and seminars, supported by group presentations, as well as visits and handling sessions at museum and/or auction previews.

Prospective students are expected to develop their specialist knowledge predominantly through printed and digital publications, comprising articles of both introductory nature and of academic significance. In addition, student will be encouraged to acquire a general understanding to the genres and decorative categories of Qing ceramics through accessing publications illustrating museum and reputable private collections; as well as sales catalogues compiled by credible international auction houses. A list of suggested readings, museum websites and access to prominent collections shall be provided to participants in due course.