Page:Brinkley - China - Volume 1.djvu/249

 PORCELADNIDECORATED

To black glaze of the same nature designs in gold were also applied. It has been shown that this fashion, as well as a similar application of gold pictures to souffé blue grounds, were practised by the Mzug pot- ters. Both the early examples and those of the Kang-hsi and Chien-lung eras are open to the same criticism: the gilt designs, being insufficiently fired, present a crude appearance and are easily effaced by use.

Enamelled decoration on a red glaze is another variety which may be practically attributed to the Kang-hsi era (1661-1722). The conception of such a method belongs to the Hswan-té (1426-1435) pot- ters of the Mimg Dynasty, among whose authenti- cated productions there are little vessels moulded in the form of red fruits with green leaves and brown stalks. But the ware particularly alluded to here is covered with a soft, red, or ruby glaze — obtained from peroxide of iron — forming a ground for floral design, insects, and so forth in brilliant enamels. Its manufacture cannot be ascribed to a period more re- mote than the reign of Kang-hsi, and the very few specimens now procurable probably belong to the Yung-ching or Chien-lung era. Some choice pieces have their red surface broken by medallions enclosing beautifully executed designs in enamels of the Rose Family type. The ware occupiesa high place among keramic productions. It is among those described by Chinese dealers as “‘ Imperial porcelain,” or kuan- yao. The specimens usually found are rice bowls, small vegetable dishes and cups. Vases are rare. On the whole these porcelains may be said to occupy the highest place among Chinese wares decorated with enamels over the glaze. The technique leaves noth-

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