Vessels of Influence China and the Birth of Porcelain in Medieval and Early Modern Japan

by Coolidge Rousmaniere, Nicole

• ISBN13: 9780715634639
• ISBN10: 0715634631
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-08-16
• Publisher: Bristol Classical Pr

Summary

This book, while examining in depth the role of Chinese ceramics in Japan, also delves into the meaning, motivation for, and rapid development of Japanese porcelain from many angles, including archaeology, heirloom and documentary evidence. The political and fiscal advantage that one lord found for his domain in creating its own local 'china' is placed in the context of the domestic and international market economy. Through an examination of the role of China and that of a domestic 'china' in Japan, a fuller picture of Japan's rich material culture emerges, revealing complex interactions between government, taste-makers, traders, merchants, consumers, imports and new technology. Vessels of Influence also discusses how these interactions have been viewed by historians, and the often heated debates that have occurred as a result.

Author Biography

Nicole Coolidge Rousmaniere is the Research Director of the Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures, Norwich and Project Curator for Japanese ceramics at the British Museum.

Table of Contents

Preface
List of Figures
Timeline
Maps
Figures
Introduction
Porcelain Debates in Japan and in the West
Chinese Ceramics in Japan during the Medieval Period, and Their Significance in Tea Gatherings
The Genesis of Porcelain
Conclusion
Postscript
Key Japanese Terms and Characters List
References
Index