Basic Introduction to Boshan Ceramics
Boshan has long been known as the “Porcelain Capital” and is one of China's five major ceramic production areas. Among Boshan Art Ceramics, the most famous is the “Raindrop Glaze,” historically referred to as “oil drop.” It is named for its appearance of luminous silver spots on a dark glaze surface. These spots are as small as grains of rice, resembling shining stars in the night sky from a distance, which led to the saying that “a foot-tall vase or an inch-deep bowl is considered an unparalleled treasure, while teacups and wine goblets are regarded as priceless rarities.”
Product Features
Boshan Art Ceramics come in a myriad of forms, both graceful and vivid, exquisitely delicate, evoking a lifelike feeling. The art of engraving porcelain is hailed as the essence of Eastern art and a unique specialty of China. With simple hammers and chisels, artisans create breathtaking works on porcelain plates. Many of these engravings have been designated as national gifts presented by Chinese leaders to foreign heads of state as high-end gifts. Exquisite black pottery artworks, inheriting the traditions of Dawenkou Culture and Longshan Culture, are characterized by their “paper-thinness, lacquer-brightness, and bell-like resonance.” Garden ceramics, standing out on their own, feature elegant shapes and a rustic yet refined style.
Historical Folklore
Boshan, an old county name, is located in the northern foothills of the Taiyi Mountain Area in central Shandong Province. In 1958, the county was abolished and incorporated into Zibo City. According to historical research, glazed pottery was being produced during the Han Dynasty. By the Song Dynasty, the renowned “Raindrop Glaze” and “Tea Leaf Glaze” were created. White-glazed ceramics were successfully tested in the late Ming Dynasty. During the Qing Dynasty, the number of kilns increased and production scales expanded, with the start of fine daily-use porcelain production. Traditional specialties such as “rain-colored glaze” and “tea leaf glaze” are still highly prized in international markets today.
Awards and Honors
The 5-meter-high embossed double-dragon vase, known as a giant in the world of ceramics, was gifted by the Shandong Provincial Government to the 11th Asian Games. The “Double Dragons Playing in Water Pot,” “China's Great Tripod,” and “Panorama of China's Hundred Emperors” are all world records, leaving everyone who sees them in awe.