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The Art of Jingdezhen Enamel Porcelain

Jingdezhen, known as the porcelain capital of China, is world-renowned for its exquisite enamel porcelain. The craftsmanship has been passed down through generations, blending intricate artistry with centuries-old tradition. Creating a masterpiece involves not just artistic skill, but also patience, precision, and the spiritual dedication of the artisans.

1. Clay Shaping (拉坯)

The artisan begins by shaping the porcelain using a potter's wheel, forming the basic vessel with soft kaolin clay.

Clay-covered hands shaping a small bowl in Jingdezhen porcelain enamel porcelain final firing process

2. Trimming (利坯)

Once partially dried, the shaped body is refined by trimming and smoothing to achieve the perfect form.

White ceramic bell being crafted in Jingdezhen porcelain enamel porcelain final firing process

3. First Firing (第一次烧制)

The unglazed porcelain is fired in the kiln to strengthen the body, preparing it for the next steps.

Black kiln with handle used in final firing of Jingdezhen enamel porcelain artwork

4. Glazing (上釉)

The vessel is dipped or brushed with a base glaze that gives the porcelain its signature shine and translucency.

White bowl with hand inside showcasing Jingdezhen porcelain and enamel porcelain final firing

5. Second Firing to Form Porcelain (第二次烧制成瓷)

The glazed piece is fired again at high temperatures to transform it into finished white porcelain.

White ceramic bowl showcasing Jingdezhen porcelain enamel and final firing craftsmanship

6. Hand-Painting (手绘图案)

Skilled painters illustrate intricate traditional patterns and motifs using fine brushes and mineral pigments.

Hand-painted Jingdezhen porcelain ceramic cup showcased in enamel porcelain final firing process

7. Filling with Opaque White Enamel (填玻璃白)

A traditional step where artisans fill selected areas with glassy white enamel to enhance contrast and layering.

Hand-painted Jingdezhen enamel porcelain teacup during final firing in The Art of Jingdezhen Enamel Porcelain

8. Third Firing to Seal Enamels (第三次烧制烧合)

The painted porcelain undergoes a lower-temperature firing to fuse the enamel decoration onto the surface.

Metal kiln with heating coils used in final firing of Jingdezhen porcelain enamel porcelain

9. Hand Coloring (手工填色)

Additional colors and gold accents are filled in by hand, adding richness and depth to the final piece.

Peach-painted Jingdezhen enamel porcelain teacup with intricate final firing detail

10. Signature & Stamping (落款)

The artist’s mark and seal are added, often with a brush or stamp, to authenticate the creation.

Hand-painted Jingdezhen enamel porcelain cup featured in The Art of Jingdezhen Enamel Porcelain

11. Final Firing (第四次烧制成品)

A final firing solidifies all decorations and finishes the piece into its final, gleaming state.

Peach-decorated Jingdezhen enamel porcelain bowl showcased in The Art of Jingdezhen Enamel Porcelain

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