Jingdezhen Handmade Clay Throwing: A Millennia-Old Craft with Global Recognition
Jingdezhen Handmade Clay Throwing: A Millennia-Old Craft with Global Recognition
1. Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
The art of handmade clay throwing in Jingdezhen traces its origins back to the Neolithic era, but reached its pinnacle during the Song Dynasty (1004-1007 AD). When imperial kilns were established to produce porcelain for royalty, the throwing technique flourished. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, Jingdezhen had become China's porcelain capital, with artisans gathering from across the land to perfect this craft.
📜 The Ming Dynasty text Tiangong Kaiwu records: "Seventy-two hands must work the clay before a vessel is complete." Among these steps, clay throwing remains the most crucial.
🏺 Song Dynasty documentation in Records of Ceramics provides the earliest detailed accounts of these techniques.
2. Tools, Materials and Technical Process
Essential Tools:
- Potter's wheel (traditionally foot-powered, now often electric)
- Shaping tools, cutting wires, sponges and brushes
Material Selection:
Jingdezhen's kaolin clay remains unmatched for its plasticity and heat resistance. Research confirms that the throwing process aligns clay particles to significantly enhance structural integrity.
👐 Technical Process:
3. Artistic Essence and Global Recognition
The highest achievement in clay throwing is the "union of mind and hand." As master artisan Wang Xiliang observes: "Throwing comes not from the hands, but from the heart."
🌍 International Recognition:
"Among the world's most perfect ceramic arts"
- Bernard Leach, British ceramicist
"Globally significant craft heritage"
- American Ceramic Institute
"The epitome of Eastern craft aesthetics"
- Yanagi Sōetsu, Japanese scholar
"Living human cultural heritage"
- Sèvres Museum, France
4. Contemporary Value
In our industrialised world, handmade throwing maintains unique relevance:
Have you experienced traditional clay throwing? Share your thoughts! 🏺✨
References
Chinese Sources:
- Li Jiazhi History of Chinese Science: Ceramics Volume (1998)
- Fang Lili Jingdezhen Folk Kilns (2002)
International Sources:
- Leach A Potter's Book (1940)
- Harrison-Hall Jingdezhen: Porcelain City (2014)