Glaze color and underglaze color are the two most famous techniques in porcelain decoration techniques, both have unique aesthetic characteristics and process needs, in the end which is better is not determined, mainly depends on aesthetic preferences, use needs and collection value and other factors.
1. Underglaze color
Underglaze painting refers to the technique of painting a pattern on a porcelain tire, covering it with a layer of transparent glaze and then firing it. This technique began in the Tang Dynasty, became popular in the Song Dynasty, and reached its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Features of underglaze include:
Durability: The color is hidden under the glaze, so it is wear-resistant, scratch-resistant, and not easy to fade.
The tone is calm: Due to the coverage of the glaze, the color of the underglaze color is more restrained and calm.
Process requirements: When painting, it is necessary to take into account the change of color after firing at high temperatures.
Typical features:Cultural relics value: Because of its long history, it has high archaeological value and collection value.
The process is complex: Painters need to have superb skills, and at the same time have a deep understanding of porcelain clay and color materials.
Second, the glaze in the color
Glaze in color is a decorative technique formed by painting and firing again after glazing on a plain tire. This technique was adopted by official kilns in the Yuan Dynasty and flourished in the Ming Dynasty, especially in the Qing Dynasty. Features of glaze color include:
Bright colors: The color in the glaze is bright and bright, and the color changes are rich.
There are clear hierarchies: The transition between different colors is natural and has a strong sense of layering.
Firing at medium temperature: Generally completed between 800 and 1200, the technical difficulty is low.
Typical features:Visuals: Bright colors, magnificent, suitable for decorative needs.
Wide applicability: Because of the low firing temperature, it is suitable for a variety of porcelains.
3. Comparison of advantages and disadvantages
Underglaze color and mid-glaze color have their own advantages, and their advantages and disadvantages can be compared from the following aspects:
Durable performance: The durability of underglaze is generally better.
Color performance: The color of the glaze is more vivid, which adapts to the aesthetic needs of modern people.
Difficulty of making: The underglaze color process is more complex and demanding.
Artistic value: Both have unique artistic styles and their value varies from connoisseur to connoisseur.
History and culture: Underglaze color has a longer history and has a high cultural research value.
Summary:
When choosing which is better between inglaze and underglaze, it mainly depends on personal preference and use. If you prefer a calm color and historical roots that will stand the test of time, underglaze may be the better choice;If you are looking for visual brilliance and brightness, then glaze color may be more in line with the requirements.
In the eyes of collectors, both have their own merits, underglaze color is loved by people for its long history and superb craftsmanship, and glaze color with its unique artistic effect and rich color also has a very high artistic value.
Whether it is glaze color or underglaze color, both are treasures of the Chinese nation, and both represent the pinnacle of porcelain art, and they each show different historical culture and artistic charm. In different times and aesthetic concepts, their status and popularity vary, but they are all art treasures worthy of our appreciation and cherishment.