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Sunday 17 March 2024

Why are colors, bats, and dragons so significant in Chinese culture? (Daoguang)


The significance of colors, bats, and dragons in Chinese history and culture is deeply rooted in symbolism, tradition, and beliefs that have been integral to Chinese society for centuries. Each element carries its own unique significance, reflecting various aspects of Chinese cultural and historical values. Colors Colors hold significant symbolism in Chinese culture and are often associated with various meanings and concepts: 1. Red: In Chinese culture, red is a symbol of good luck, joy, and happiness. It is often used in traditional Chinese weddings, festivals, and other celebratory events to signify prosperity and good fortune. 2. Yellow: Historically, yellow was the color of the emperor in China, symbolizing royalty and power. It was reserved for the emperor and represented the supreme authority of the imperial ruler. 3. Blue: Blue is associated with immortality and the heavens in Chinese culture. It is often linked to the concept of eternity and the spiritual realm. Bats: Bats hold a unique place in Chinese culture, symbolizing blessings, happiness, and good fortune. Their significance stems from linguistic associations and cultural beliefs deeply ingrained in Chinese society. Linguistic Association: The Chinese word for bat, "fu" (蝠), sounds similar to the word for good fortune, "fu" (福), making bats a symbol of auspiciousness. This phonetic wordplay reinforces the positive associations with bats and their ability to bring blessings into one's life. Representation of Prosperity: Bats are often depicted in Chinese art and decorative motifs, especially in contexts related to prosperity and abundance. They are frequently found in designs alongside other auspicious symbols, such as peaches, coins, and the character for longevity, reinforcing their role as harbingers of good luck. Guardians of the Home: Bats are believed to safeguard the home and its inhabitants, warding off malevolent spirits and negative energies. Images of bats adorn household items, doors, and textiles, serving as protective talismans and symbols of domestic harmony. Social Symbolism: Beyond their supernatural associations, bats also hold social significance, representing happiness, longevity, and familial harmony. They embody the desire for a joyful and harmonious life, making them popular motifs in celebrations and decorative arts. Dragons: Dragons occupy a central place in Chinese mythology, folklore, and symbolism, embodying cosmic forces, imperial authority, and auspicious power. Revered as symbols of strength, wisdom, and prosperity, dragons are ubiquitous in Chinese culture, leaving an indelible mark on art, literature, and spiritual practices. Imperial Symbolism: In imperial China, the dragon was the ultimate symbol of power and authority, exclusively associated with the emperor and his divine right to rule. The dragon's celestial status conferred legitimacy upon the emperor, linking him to heavenly forces and the cosmic order. Manifestation of Yin and Yang: Dragons represent the harmonious balance of yin and yang, embodying complementary forces such as water and fire, heaven and earth. They symbolize the cyclical nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all things, reflecting the Taoist concept of cosmic harmony. Guardians of Treasure: Dragons are often depicted as guardians of treasure, hoarding precious jewels, pearls, and sacred artifacts. This association with wealth and abundance reinforces their role as symbols of prosperity and good fortune, inspiring reverence and awe. Spiritual Guardians: Beyond their earthly manifestations, dragons are spiritual beings revered for their wisdom and benevolence. They are believed to protect the land, bestow blessings upon humanity, and ensure the fertility of the earth, fostering harmony between the natural and supernatural realms.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5aYPqHeHq4

Sunday 10 March 2024

The legend of Lady Yu and the Falangcai ‘Poppy’ bowl (Qianlong)


The Qianlong Falangcai Porcelain 'Poppy' Bowl, an extraordinary artifact from the Qing dynasty, is renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship and historical significance. This masterpiece, which sold at a Sotheby's auction in September 2018 for a staggering HK$169,413,000, stands as a testament to the exceptional artistry of the Qianlong era. Lady Yu and the Poppy flower Lady Yu, a revered ancient Chinese beauty, has left an enduring legacy in Chinese culture, particularly through the association with the poppy flower, known in China as 'Yu meiren' or 'Beauty Yu'. This association serves as a testament to Lady Yu's enduring impact on Chinese art, literature, and folklore. The Legend of Lady Yu The poppy flower's depiction on the bowl is symbolic of the story of Lady Yu, a popular heroine whose tale embodies themes of heroism, loyalty, love, and devotion. Lady Yu's story has been romanticized in Chinese poetry and fiction, cementing her as an enduring symbol of virtue and beauty in Chinese cultural heritage. Cultural Significance Lady Yu's association with the poppy flower not only celebrates the natural beauty of the flower but also serves as a poignant reminder of her timeless embodiment of grace and courage. The intertwining of Lady Yu's legend with the symbolism of the poppy flower has contributed to the perpetuation of her legacy throughout Chinese history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaNimPvnDCY

Sunday 25 February 2024

Is there a connection between Chinese porcelain and feng shui? (Chinese history)

 


Feng shui, meaning "the wind and the water," is an age-old Chinese practice that seeks to harmonize one's surroundings with the life force known as qi (氣). In this fascinating tradition, Chinese porcelains are revered as vessels that embody and transmit this vital energy, influencing the flow of harmonious 'qi' through their design, placement, and orientation.

Dating back to the 5th century BC, Chinese scholars have delved into the depths of feng shui, embracing its intricate ties to Yin and Yang, the Five Elements (wuxing, 五行), and various aspects of Chinese symbolism and philosophy.

Click on the link below to learn about the profound cultural significance of Chinese polychrome porcelain and its enthralling connection to the art of feng shui.


Enjoy!



https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/finding-harmony-chinese-polychrome-porcelain-and-feng-shui?locale=en


Thursday 8 February 2024

A Toast to the Mighty Wood Dragon and New Beginnings (Lunar New Year 2024)




Before the gatherings and celebrations begin, here's wishing all my Chinese friends a joyous, blessed and prosperous New Year!

As the mighty wood dragon soars into the new year, may its spirit ignite a spark within us all!

Here's to embracing new adventures with the fearless heart of the dragon and hoarding treasures of laughter, love and good fortune🔥💪🎉🎆🥂

Sunday 21 January 2024

Exploring the golden age of the Kangxi era (Qing Dynasty)

 

The Kangxi Emperor who ruled from 1661 to 1722, is celebrated as one of China's most influential emperors. His reign was a beacon of prosperity, cultural renaissance, and stability. A keen patron of arts and culture, his reign witnessed the blossoming of Chinese ceramics, which evolved in style, technique, and diversity, marking a golden era in the history of Chinese ceramics. Under the Kangxi Emperor's rule, Chinese ceramics experienced a renaissance that was unmatched in its vibrancy and diversity. One of the most significant developments was the introduction of famille verte, a style characterized by its green and iron-red enamels painted on a white ground. This style was a homage to the delicate artistry of the Ming dynasty, crafting a beautiful link between the past and the present. An excellent example of the famille verte style is the Kangxi Vase, housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The vase embodies the quintessential Kangxi era aesthetics with its intricate designs of birds and flowers, demonstrating the impeccable craftsmanship and the aesthetic sensibilities of that time (2). These pieces, adorned with sophisticated motifs and vibrant colors, were not merely decorative items but also mirrored the socio-cultural fabric of the era. Furthermore, the Kangxi era witnessed a prominent revival in blue and white porcelain, a style that had been in decline during the early Qing period. The blue and white ceramics of the Kangxi period are renowned for their rich cobalt blue under transparent glaze, creating a striking contrast that captivated audiences. Jingdezhen, China's porcelain capital, was home to over 100 kilns producing blue and white ceramics during this era, showcasing the high demand and popularity of these artifacts (4). In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these ceramics were also a testament to the technological advancements of this era. The Kangxi potters mastered the skill of controlling the kiln temperature, which enabled them to create a wide range of colors and effects. This technical prowess is evident in the 'flambé' porcelain of the Kangxi era, known for its vibrant, flowing glazes that mimic the natural patterns and colors of precious stones. From grand vases and elegant bowls to delicate teapots and intricate figurines, the Kangxi era's ceramic repertoire was extensive. This diversity is a testament to the high level of skill and creativity of the artisans of this era, who were able to transform clay into a wide range of forms and objects. In contrast to Kangxi ceramics, the Yongzheng era (1723-1735) ceramics tend to be subdued, monochromatic designs, reflecting the emperor's personal taste. A remarkable example of this is the Yongzheng Yellow-ground Vase displayed at the Palace Museum in Beijing. The yellow glaze, a symbol of the emperor's power, is a subtle yet powerful representation of the imperial authority (3). The subsequent Qianlong era (1736-1795) witnessed a shift towards polychrome enamel wares, particularly the famille rose style. This is because the Qianlong Emperor was an avid art collector with a penchant for intricate designs and experimental techniques. A notable example is the Qianlong Falangcai Bowl, which fetched a record-breaking $30.4 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2018 (6). In conclusion, the ceramics produced during the Kangxi era served as an enduring testament to the emperor's patronage and the artistic and technical skills of the potters of that era. They represent a crucial period in the history of Chinese ceramics, marking a significant shift in style, technique, and form that set the stage for the developments in the Yongzheng and Qianlong eras. The progression from the Kangxi era to the Yongzheng and Qianlong eras reflects not only the personal preferences of the respective emperors, but also the dynamic evolution of Chinese ceramics, making it a captivating subject for study and appreciation.


Sources: 1. Kerr, R. (1998). Chinese Ceramics: Porcelain of the Qing Dynasty 1644-1911. London: V&A Publications. 2. Victoria and Albert Museum, "Kangxi Vase", Collections. 3. Palace Museum, Beijing, "Yongzheng Yellow-ground Vase", Collections. 4. Valenstein, S.G. (1989). A Handbook of Chinese Ceramics. Metropolitan Museum of Art. 5. Zhang, F. (2012). From Yongle to Qianlong: The Evolution of the Imperial Porcelain Industry during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Journal of the American Oriental Society, 132(2). 6. Sotheby's, "A Highly Important Imperial Falangcai Poppy Bowl", Auctions.

Sunday 14 January 2024

Forbidden City treasures & Taiwan's Museum marvel in 3D!

 

If you're a fan of history and art, then you've got to visit the National Palace Museum in Taiwan. It's like stepping into a time machine and traveling through 8,000 years of Chinese culture!
Imagine more than 700,000 pieces of art, all under one roof. And the best part? Most of these treasures were originally stashed away in Beijing's Forbidden City. Now, if jumping on a plane to Taiwan isn't on your bucket list, no worries:) You can still get a taste of the museum's amazing collection right from your couch. Click on the link below to check out their 3D virtual exhibition. Enjoy!
https://theme.npm.edu.tw/3d/List.aspx?l=2

Sunday 7 January 2024

Top 5 masterpieces that stole the show in 2023 garnered a total of $72.7million (Antiques auction)

 

Apparently the majority of the 5 pieces came from the collection of renowned Chinese antique dealers.

The piece that bagged second place was my favourite out of the 5🙂


What about you?



https://en.thevalue.com/articles/auction-review-2023-most-expensive-antique-chinese-porcelains-top-five