Ru ware

Definition

Ru ware is a type of Chinese ceramics that originated during the Song dynasty, known for its unique pale blue or greenish glaze and subtle beauty. This distinctive ware was often crafted for the elite class and is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and understated aesthetic, which reflects the artistic ideals of the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ru ware is one of the 'Five Great Wares' of the Song dynasty, recognized for its rarity and refined beauty.
2. Only a limited number of original ru ware pieces exist today, making them highly sought after by collectors and museums.
3. The glaze of ru ware is notable for its smooth texture and subtle sheen, often described as resembling the surface of jade.
4. Ru ware was primarily produced at the Ru kiln in Henan province, which contributed to its reputation and prestige during the Song dynasty.
5. The aesthetics of ru ware are characterized by simplicity and elegance, aligning with the philosophical ideals of Daoism and Confucianism that were influential during this time.

Review Questions

• How does ru ware reflect the artistic and cultural values of the Song dynasty?
  • Ru ware embodies the artistic values of the Song dynasty through its emphasis on simplicity, elegance, and harmony with nature. The understated beauty of ru ware aligns with the philosophical principles of Daoism and Confucianism that were prevalent during this era. Its refined craftsmanship also showcases the technical advancements achieved in ceramics at that time, highlighting a shift towards valuing artistry and individual expression in Chinese culture.
• In what ways does ru ware differentiate itself from other types of ceramics produced during the Song dynasty?
  • Ru ware stands out from other ceramics of the Song dynasty due to its distinctive pale glaze, exceptional quality, and limited production. Unlike popular types like celadon, which features bolder colors, ru ware embraces a more subdued palette that highlights subtle textures and forms. The rarity of authentic ru ware pieces also adds to their uniqueness, as they were primarily crafted for the elite class, making them symbols of status and sophistication.
• Evaluate the significance of ru ware in relation to later developments in Chinese ceramics during subsequent dynasties.
  • Ru ware holds significant historical importance as it set a high standard for ceramic artistry that influenced subsequent dynasties. The aesthetic principles established by ru ware continued to resonate through later periods, including the Yuan and Ming dynasties, where innovations built upon its legacy. The desire for exquisite craftsmanship found in ru ware paved the way for future developments in glaze techniques and forms, ultimately shaping the evolution of Chinese ceramics into a celebrated art form recognized worldwide.

Related terms

Song Dynasty: A period in Chinese history (960-1279) marked by significant advancements in art, technology, and culture, including the development of fine ceramics like ru ware.

Celadon: A type of glazed ceramic that typically has a jade green color, commonly produced in East Asia and often compared to ru ware due to similar aesthetic qualities.

Yuan dynasty: The dynasty that succeeded the Song (1271-1368), known for further innovations in ceramics and the blending of styles from various regions.