Joined Colours: Decoration and meaning in Chinese Porcelain. Ceramics from Collectors in the Min Chiu Society, Hong Kong

Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.in association with Tai Yip Company, Hong Kong, 1993 Book. Very Good. Soft cover. English text; Paperback; 21.8 x 28.2 cm; 0.720 Kg; 158 pages with 165 colour plates and 7 black-and-white illustrations.; Used with minor signs of wear; Catalogue from the exhibition at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, January 31-November 28, 1993.; The Gemlike beauty of multicoloured enamel decoration on white porcelain - sometimes akin to painting, sometimes echoing the rich texture of silk brocades, lacquers, and cloisonne - is the focus of this volume of seventy-nine Chinese porcelains of the Ming and Qing dynasties drawn from renowned collections of members of the Min Chiu Society, Hong Kong. Although polychrome porcelain is most often examined from the perspectives of authenticity, dating, and stylistic development, this study addresses the crucial issue of meaning. Through an exploration of the emblematic significance of individual colours and of colour combinations (including the famed doucai color scheme from which this book takes its name) and the auspicious meaning of imagery, the authors have placed these impressive ceramics within a framework of Chinese cultural values. The catalogue is lavishly illustrated in colour, with detailed descriptions of the objects focusing on decoration and the use of under - and overglazed enamels. Reign marks are illustrated for each piece. This book will be of great interest to collectors and students of porcelain, scholars, and all those who love ceramics and Chinese art..