Ru wares

Definition

Ru wares are a type of Chinese ceramics from the Northern Song Dynasty, known for their elegant forms and distinctive glazes. These wares are celebrated for their soft, pale blue or green glaze that resembles jade, reflecting the aesthetic values of the Song Dynasty, which emphasized simplicity, natural beauty, and refined craftsmanship.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ru wares were produced in limited quantities and are among the rarest ceramics from the Song Dynasty, making them highly prized by collectors.
2. The glaze used in ru wares is noted for its subtle variations in color and texture, which adds to their visual appeal and reflects the mastery of artisans during this period.
3. Ru wares were originally made for the imperial court and were used in rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing status and refinement.
4. The production of ru wares was concentrated in a specific region near Kaifeng, where the unique clay and firing techniques contributed to their distinct characteristics.
5. Ru wares exemplify the Song aesthetic of 'less is more,' showcasing a minimalist design that emphasizes natural beauty over elaborate decoration.

Review Questions

• How do ru wares reflect the aesthetic values of the Song Dynasty?
  • Ru wares reflect the aesthetic values of the Song Dynasty through their emphasis on simplicity, natural beauty, and exquisite craftsmanship. The soft blue-green glaze mimics jade, showcasing an appreciation for understated elegance rather than ostentation. This aligns with the broader cultural movements during the Song period, which favored minimalism and refined artistry over elaborate decoration.
• Discuss the significance of ru wares in the context of imperial patronage during the Song Dynasty.
  • Ru wares hold significant historical value as they were created primarily for imperial use during the Song Dynasty. Their limited production makes them rare artifacts that symbolize the sophistication and cultural achievement of the court. The fact that they were used in rituals underscores their importance as status symbols within the imperial hierarchy and highlights how art was intertwined with power dynamics during this era.
• Evaluate how ru wares illustrate broader changes in Chinese ceramics during the Song Dynasty compared to earlier dynasties.
  • Ru wares illustrate significant shifts in Chinese ceramics from earlier dynasties by emphasizing refined aesthetics over functional utility. While earlier ceramics often featured bold colors and elaborate designs, Song Dynasty ceramics like ru wares showcased a preference for subtlety and elegance. This change reflects a broader cultural shift towards appreciation for simplicity and harmony with nature, marking a transformative period in Chinese art that influenced ceramics for centuries to come.

Related terms

Song Dynasty:

A major period in Chinese history from 960 to 1279, characterized by economic growth, advancements in technology, and flourishing arts and culture.

Celadon: A type of glazed pottery that originated in China, known for its jade-like green color and often used during the Song Dynasty.

Bodhisattva:

In Mahayana Buddhism, a person who is on the path to Buddhahood and delays their own enlightenment to help others attain it; often depicted in art during the Song Dynasty.