To understand the legendary Jian Kiln, one must first understand the process of crystallization. The fundamental principle of firing porcelain involves heating glaze materials until they melt. Under high temperature or pressure, the molten components tend to aggregate. If solid particles form within this melt, they act as nuclei for the growth of crystal structures—a phenomenon known as crystallization.
The Glaze of Jian Zhan is Formed by Crystallization
In the firing of most porcelain and the production of glassware, crystallization is typically considered a flaw. Crystals within the glaze layer can compromise the ceramic's functional properties and leave visible particles, detracting from its overall aesthetic uniformity and smoothness.
Another category of Jian Zhan glaze is the variegated glaze, achieved through kiln transformation (窑变) technology. Here, metallic coloring agents form unique compounds at specific temperatures, causing the glaze to exhibit various colors. This technique is also famously used by other kilns like the Jun Kiln.
The Distinctive Kiln Transformation Technique for Color
In summary, the technology of the Jian Kiln lies in its masterful application of both crystallization and kiln transformation reactions to create specific glaze effects. This artistry emerged from the unique conditions and background of the Jian Kiln itself.
In contrast, porcelain traditions like Dehua (Blanc de Chine) and Jingdezhen have enjoyed continuous development to the present day, supported by stable market demand. They have evolved with trends while preserving their core artistic identity, without needing to integrate fundamentally different technical styles from other traditions.
The Historical Shift in Technique
The Jian Kiln flourished during the Song Dynasty but gradually faded after the Yuan Dynasty. While modern efforts have successfully revived Song-era firing techniques, the utility and aesthetic sensibilities of Song porcelain can feel somewhat incongruous today. Adaptation was inevitable. Consequently, the technical focus has shifted more prominently toward harnessing kiln transformation phenomena, which defines the modern artistic style of Jian Zhan. This evolution respects its ancient roots while allowing the art form to speak to contemporary appreciation.
