Chinese porcelain is one of the most popular materials from which large quantities of dishes and other products are made. In this material, we consider the history of the emergence of porcelain and get acquainted with its main characteristics.
A bit of history
Chinese porcelain is a material that has a rather long, but at the same time an interesting history of its origin and development. According to research data, the first mention of Chinese porcelain dates from the second millennium BC. However, in its modern sense, the material appeared much later, because it gradually improved with the development of technology. In the 6th-7th centuries of our era, Chinese scientists began to produce high-quality porcelain, which had a large number of positive and valuable characteristics: it was completely white and very thin.
The main difficulties in its production were related to the fact that it was quite difficult to find a suitable raw material.
The Chinese tried to use jade, clay, wood and other materials, but none of these options fit. Over time, suitable raw materials were found. The progenitor of modern porcelain was made from an unusual rock that represented alloy of mica and quartz. This material was mined in the province of Jiangxi. Here also appeared the first antique porcelain workshops.
Interesting from a historical point of view is the fact of the discovery of ancient fragments of material during archaeological excavations. Thanks to an unusual find, scientists concluded that the material was used during the Tang dynasty.
After China established its trade relations with other countries, porcelain and its various varieties (for example, stucco) began to spread across the globe. The material quickly attracted world attention and won the love of many consumers.
Advantages and disadvantages
Chinese porcelain, like any other material that exists in nature, is not ideal. Of course, he has a large number of positive characteristics, thanks to which he received widespread and love of the consumer. But, in addition to this, porcelain has negative characteristics.
If we talk about the benefits of the material, then first of all it should be highlighted strength and reliability. The thing is that The raw material for making porcelain is a mixture of clay, kaolin, quartz and feldspar. It burns at high temperatures. As a result of such processes, a durable material is obtained that is capable of withstanding a whole range of negative external influences.
Another positive characteristic of the material is its environmental safety. Products without danger can be used for any purpose.
Aesthetically appealing look - this is the property due to which a large number of housewives give preference to dishes made of this material.
However, in addition to the listed list of positive characteristics, the material from China has a number of drawbacks. Among the minuses most often emit high cost of products, because of which china, as well as other furnishings can not afford to buy representatives of the lower social strata. Besides, material is very sensitive to all sorts of mechanical loads and can easily break. In connection with this characteristic, it requires additional care.
Varieties of products
As is known, porcelain is a rather popular material, from which a large number of products are made for a variety of purposes, for example, plates, dishes, vases etc. If we turn to historical information, it is important to know that the first objects that were made of this material were jugs. Their surface was carefully polished, and in themselves they had an elongated shape. In addition, porcelain was used to make VAZ (or celadon, as they were called in the ancient world), which served a decorative function.
Such vessels could be of different colors, with green and blue tones being considered the most popular variants.
Today, these things are not only objects of everyday life, but also real works of art. They are hunted by many collectors, as well as they are exhibited in many museums around the world.
During the rule of the Tang dynasty, and then the Ming dynasty, porcelain products began to be widely used, which had various embossments on their surfaces: drawings and patterns. On the mass flow was made the manufacture of vessels, which were painted using 3 colors. They were covered with glaze and painting. It was this kind of porcelain, which was produced on an industrial level, for the first time came to Europe.
In addition to household items, jewelry was made of porcelain. Women strung colored porcelain pieces on chains and used such adornments as beads and necklaces.
The most classic version of the use of porcelain, which is still popular today, is the manufacture of various dishes from this material. At present, such production is developing on a rather large scale. However, a similar phenomenon occurred in ancient times. Thus, by order of the emperor in ancient China produced more than 30,000 dishes, 16,000 plates and 18,000 mugs per year.
Design options
Today, there are almost countless options for the design of porcelain products. Dishes from this material can be embossed and molded design, be monotonous, painted with paints, etc.
If we talk about the relief method of decoration, it is important to note that this design is applied to the walls of dishes by engraving or perforation. Elements can be forced out immediately on the dishes or they can be made separately and then glued to the main object. As for the application of painting (drawings, ornaments, patterns, etc.), then there are 2 options for its implementation: under the icing or on top of it.
Traditionally, enamel paints are used for painting porcelain tableware.
In general, today in the market you can find china for every taste and color. Pure-white kits, design options with bronze or silver, as well as objects with artistic stucco molding are popular.
Manufacturers Overview
To date, the production of traditional Chinese porcelain engaged in many companies around the world. In addition to the brands of China, many European trademarks own the secrets of the unique material. Among the most sought-after and popular companies that have established themselves exclusively on the positive side, there are several.
- Hebei Grinding Wheel Factory. The Chinese brand is famous for its wide assortment and unsurpassed quality of the products offered. Under this trademark, not only dishes and tableware from high-quality porcelain are produced, but also original decorative elements for interior decoration (figurines, vases, candlesticks, etc.).
- Royal Classics. Another popular brand from China.The product range of the brand includes sets and individual items of dishes, jugs, decanters and vases, candy and fruit baskets, kettles and containers for spices, as well as souvenirs. All products are of impeccable quality, wide range of colors. The design uses both traditional Oriental motifs and more modern decorative elements.
- Colombo. The most sophisticated connoisseurs of Chinese porcelain will surely like the products of this brand. Luxurious tea sets, sets of plates and salad bowls, serving dishes, candy dishes, partitioned plates, napkin holders and other products are made in light pastel colors. The mural and decor of the brand Colombo pays special attention. The paints are applied to untreated dishes, and after firing, the drawings and ornaments acquire the final intensity of shades and the clarity of the lines.
- Nuova R2S - Italian brand, whose manufacturing facilities are located in China. The main conceptual idea of the company is to produce products in a single design solution. This allows you to easily decorate the interior with dishes, souvenir items and other decorative elements in the same style. For the production of its products, the company uses only the highest quality porcelain. Special mention deserves the original gift packaging products brand.
The most enthusiastic reviews buyers leave about the luxury tea pairs of this brand. They are made in light, delicate colors and decorated with a delightful floral ornament from the inside. Such a pair of tea, of course, will be the perfect gift for any occasion.
How to choose?
In order to choose a real elite porcelain and not buy a fake, should follow a few simple rules.
- Try tapping the edge of a porcelain ware with a wooden object: You should hear a ringing and melodious sound.
- Pay special attention to the color of porcelain. It can be pure white or milky. Any shades of gray indicate that the product is made from low-quality raw materials.
- In light of the china must shine through since the material itself is rather thin.
- The surface of high-quality porcelain must necessarily be smooth, without any irregularities. Chips, scratches and other imperfections are considered a marriage.
- Take a closer look at how the porcelain item is on the surface.: its bottom should fit snugly tight.
Care features
There are several rules for the operation of porcelain products, which help you maintain their appearance and extend service life.
- When washing your china, watch the water temperature carefully. It should be warm, not hot.
- As a detergent You can only use baby soap. It is strictly forbidden to use any chemical compositions.
- After washing Be sure to wipe the porcelain dry.
- Do not use the dishwasher for washing. Only manual method will do.
- Store porcelain in a dry place.
The following video will tell you more about Chinese porcelain.
