The 'Gu' Ritual Wine Vessel
Object discussed: 'Gu' Ritual Wine Vessel-Shaped Vase with Stylized Floral Design
This is an image of a Shang dynasty (1600 - 1050 BCE) 'Gu' bronze vessel from The British Museum in London. This bronze vessel is a ritual wine vessel used to hold and pour wine and alcohol during celebrations to honor the ancestors. This Gu has inscriptions carved into the base and throughout its body.
Works cited: The British Museum
These are common motifs found on Ming dynasty (1368–1644) porcelains. They feature flowers (lotus and peonies), dragons, and cloud brocades. These famous porcelain wares recognized worldwide and are a prominent marker for Chinese art.
Works cited: Sullivan, The Arts of China
These are some examples of Ming dynasty porcelain wares. These porcelains are made using an underglaze technique. They are famous for their distinctive cobalt blue and stark white color combination. These are porcelains of the highest quality and best craftsmanship.
Works Cited: Sullivan, The Arts of China
The "porcelain capital" of the world is known as Jingdezhen, which is located in the Jiangxi province of China, pictured here. It is located in Southern China, but not near sea or ocean to avoid potentially being looted. Porcelains are hand made and mass produced here, then exported internationally.
Works Cited: UNESCO
This is the art object I chose from the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. This is a 'Gu' ritual vessel made of ceramic from the Qing dynasty (1644–1911). It is dated to be made around the 17th century. It is covered with floral motifs and is geometrically shaped. It has an angular, square spout rather than the usual circular, smooth spout seen in Shang dynasty Gu vessels. Throughout the years, the Gu has adapted into a new purpose. Hundreds of years ago, the Gu was used for ceremonies and rituals but now can be used as a vase. This vase combines the style of Gu that originated in the Shang dynasty with the medium of blue and white ceramic which hails from the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368). It is a combination of different art styles and techniques with new and old ideas that creates a new object that is unique.
Works Citied: Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
