Sancai

SancaiHorseTang7-8thCentury

File:A Sancai piece.webm

Tang Dynasty sancai pottery footed jar

Tang Sancai Porcelain with Musicians on a Camel (no background)

Gansu Museum 2007 302

Tri-coloured Guan Yin (Avalokitesvara). Qing Dynasty. Shaanxi History Museum

Sancai (三彩), which translates to "three colors," is a type of Chinese pottery that was popular during the Tang dynasty (618–907 AD). This form of pottery is characterized by its use of three intermingling colors, typically green, yellow, and white, although other colors such as blue and brown were also used.

History[edit | edit source]

Sancai pottery originated during the Tang dynasty, a period known for its cultural and artistic achievements. The technique was developed in the northern regions of China, particularly in the areas around Luoyang and Xi'an. Sancai ware was often used for funerary purposes, including tomb figurines and vessels, which were placed in tombs to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.

Technique[edit | edit source]

The creation of Sancai pottery involves a complex process. The base of the pottery is made from a white clay, which is then coated with a lead glaze. The distinctive colors are achieved by adding metal oxides to the glaze: copper oxide for green, iron oxide for yellow, and manganese oxide for brown. The pottery is then fired at a relatively low temperature, which allows the colors to blend and create a vibrant, variegated effect.

Types of Sancai Pottery[edit | edit source]

Sancai pottery can be broadly categorized into two types:

Figurines: These include representations of humans, animals, and mythical creatures. The figurines are often highly detailed and were used as tomb guardians or attendants.
Vessels: These include bowls, jars, and other containers. They were often used for ritual purposes or as grave goods.

Significance[edit | edit source]

Sancai pottery is significant not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for what it reveals about Tang dynasty culture and society. The use of Sancai ware in tombs indicates the importance of funerary practices and beliefs in the afterlife. Additionally, the variety of figures and scenes depicted in Sancai pottery provides valuable insights into the daily life, fashion, and customs of the Tang dynasty.