Was the Narcissus basin used to feed palace pets during the Qianlong era? (Ru ware)

 

Ru ware, named after its origin in Ruzhou, Henan Province, represents the pinnacle of ceramic achievement during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD). Its production, believed to be inspired by a dream of Emperor Huizong, spanned a mere 20 years, making surviving pieces incredibly rare. These exquisite wares were reserved solely for the Imperial court, reflecting an era of artistic refinement and imperial patronage.

The Enigmatic Narcissus Basin: A Legacy of the Qianlong Emperor The Qianlong Emperor (1736-1796 AD) of the Qing Dynasty was a fervent admirer of artistic traditions from previous dynasties. During his reign, a concerted effort was made to replicate the elusive beauty of Ru ware. The resulting works, known as "revival Ru ware," are highly sought after in their own right, though some lack the subtle nuances of the originals. One such revival piece is the captivating Narcissus basin, a masterpiece from the Qianlong era. This piece embodies the emperor's deep appreciation for Song Dynasty aesthetics. The basin's form is simple yet elegant, perfectly suited to display the delicate narcissus flower, a symbol of purity and renewal in Chinese culture. The glaze, a hallmark of Ru ware, is a mesmerizing shade of sky blue, often described as "duck egg blue" or "celadon." In certain lighting, the glaze takes on an almost ethereal quality, with subtle variations in color and texture that enthrall the viewer.

3 Distinctive Features of Ru Ware 1. The Elusive "Ru" Glaze The most celebrated aspect of Ru ware is undoubtedly its glaze. This opalescent blue glaze, achieved through a complex firing process with meticulous temperature control, possesses a mesmerizing quality. Under different lighting conditions, the glaze appears to shift and change, revealing subtle variations in color and texture. The prized "ice crackle" pattern, a network of fine cracks within the glaze, is not a flaw but a cherished characteristic, adding depth and visual interest.

2. Minimalist Elegance Ru ware embodies the Song Dynasty's aesthetic of restrained elegance. Unburdened by excessive decoration, the beauty of these pieces lies in their simple form and the play of light on the glaze. The pottery itself is remarkably thin and light, further emphasizing the ethereal quality of these objects.

3. Song Dynasty Incised Designs While most Ru ware is devoid of ornamentation, some rare pieces feature subtle incised designs. These designs are typically simple and geometric, often inspired by natural forms like clouds or waves. Their presence adds a touch of understated elegance without compromising the piece's overall minimalist aesthetic.

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