China
Large Circular Offering Dish with Three Loop-Feet and Stylized Lotus Décor
This dish was created in the Henan Province, China, likely in Luoyang or Gongxian during the T'ang Dynasty in the 8th Century. Decorated using the Sancai technique, its ornamentation consists of a ring of six closed lotus flowers, with an open lotus at the center. During the Tang and Song dynasties, the lotus became a popular motif for ceramics and in paintings, representing purity and honesty. An open lotus flower also represents enlightenment, whereas in its closed form it represents the potential for awakening.
Conical Bowl with Russet Glaze and with Traces of Floral Décor
This bowl was created in Quyang, Hebei Province, China during the Song Dynasty in the 11th Century. It was crafted with the Ding ware technique, a product originating in Hebei Province, and considered as some of the best quality porcelain in Northern China during that time. Typical characteristics of the Ding ware style include minimal design, and edges coated with gold or silver. This piece from porcelain and coated with a dark brown glaze with a gold rim. The Song Dynasty was a period where trade increased, and kilns were built all over China to meet the demands for their ceramic wares.
Circular Bowl with Foliate Rim and Scrolling Lotus Décor
This bowl was created between the eleventh and twelfth centuries during the Song Dynasty, also in Hebei Province. It is an example of the more common ivory colored Ding ware, with thin walls and elegantly designed incisions. This bowl's ornamentation consists of incisions of scrolling lotus motifs, and is rimmed with brass. The metal rimming was used to finish the unglazed edge when they were used as table ware. Having been created during the Song Dynasty, it is likely that many bowls in this style were traded along the Silk Road, and influenced the work of potters in western lands.