080043 PS Case Study II/III: Chinese Porcelain and the Islamic World (2023W)

In overview, the historical course of progression through the pivotal period of 13th and 14th centuries can be deemed to have been largely overshadowed by the turbulence ignited alongside the emergence of the Mongol Empire. Originated from the Eastern Steppe in present day Mongolia, the Mongols have managed to expand expeditiously across the vast Eurasian continent over the course of 13th century, founding a colossal nomadic empire stretching from the Sea of Japan in the East, to the banks of the Danube in the West. Despite of the notorious pillages and despicable carnages which have unequivocally coincided alongside its rapid and exponential expansion; the very existence of a single contiguous political entity for the first time in human history was also momentous in assuring the ease of trade and communication, facilitating in an unprecedented level of cultural integration, ushering tremendous artistic innovations amongst all corners of its vast territory.

The artistic vibrancy gifted by this pivotal period of cross-cultural exchange can perhaps be best encapsulated by the expedited advancement of ceramic technology in Jingdezhen, the ceramic capital of China. In the subsequent centuries to follow, porcelain wares decorated with underglazed cobalt blue: a crucial sub-category invented in this era, has grasped exceptional attention as a major export commodity for the West as well as the Islamic World. Yet, its technical and stylistic origin have remained much debatable.

The prospective course shall therefore attempt to provide an introductory and general overview to the ceramics of Yuan and Ming dynasties, at an unprecedented period of exchange between East Asia and the Islamic World. Particular attention will be paid on the cultural and artistic contribution of Islamic cultures underpinning the advent of blue and white porcelain, through analysing the technical specifics, vessel shapes as well as decorative approaches involved. 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 Chinese porcelains during; as well as its cultural and historical significance in the wider art-historical context, particularly in account of the rapid trans-Eurasian exchange over the course of the late Medieval 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 will be 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 Chinese 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.