John J. Gredler Works of Art

Chinese Tang Dynasty Sancai Glazed Ceramic Jar

Chinese Tang dynasty Sancai glazed jar. This is a lovely example of Sancai glaze with the beautiful green, ocher and cream colors dripping down from the ocher rimand melding over three quarters of the surface with the bottom third showing the bare clay base. A tour de force in technique and artistry. 7 by 7.5 inches 

Tang Sancai glazed pottery refers to a type of Chinese ceramic that became famous during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). "Sancai" translates to "three colors," which typically are brown, green, and cream or white. Occasionally, blue was also used. These colors were achieved through the use of metallic oxides in the glaze, which, when fired at high temperatures, produced vivid colors that have retained their brilliance over centuries.

The distinct look of Sancai comes from the way the glazes melt and run together, creating a flowing effect that makes each piece unique. This pottery is a valuable part of China's cultural heritage and provides insight into the sophisticated ceramic technology of the Tang Dynasty.