Watch my video here: Ceramic Canvases | An Ode to Serenity from Jingdezhen.
I recently visited the exhibition “Ceramic Canvases: An Ode to Serenity from Jingdezhen” at the China Cultural Center in The Hague. The exhibition brought together sixteen beautiful porcelain artworks from Jingdezhen, paying tribute to the 50-year diplomatic relations between China and the Netherlands.
Connectedness through Art
The artworks in the exhibition combined ancient techniques such as underglaze and overglaze with traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, poetry, and seal art. The result was impressive: each piece of ceramics served as a canvas for serene images and cultural symbolism.
Introduction to Jingdezhen
At the heart of China’s ceramic industry, on the banks of the Yangtze River, lies the ancient city of Jingdezhen. This city has long been known for its high-quality porcelain production and is also called ‘The City of Ceramic.’ Jingdezhen’s history as a major center for Chinese ceramics spans millennia, with a particular flourishing during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Highlights of the Ceramic Artworks
- Dragon Soars in a Flourishing Era
Depicts a majestic dragon reflecting the cultural sentiments of the Chinese people.
HONG Qinyang (1985) – Jianxi Provincial Ceramic Art Master.
- Leisure For Half A Day
Captures a tranquil scene of a fisherman by a river with vibrant blue brushstrokes.
JIANG-Hexian (1966) – Jianxi Provincial Ceramic Art Master.
- Smooth Wind, the Right Time to Set Sail
Symbolizes friendship between China and the Netherlands through a fusion of traditional brushwork and blue-white porcelain elegance.
YANG Shuhua (1954) – Chinese Arts and Crafts Master.
- Blossom In The Warmth Of Spring
Blends lively brushstrokes with modern artistic elements, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
YU Xuan – Jianxi Provincial Arts and Crafts Master.
- Rising Step by Step
Beautifully portrays bamboo, symbolizing resilience and friendship, using blue-white techniques.
FANG Yi (1975) – Jianxi Provincial Arts and Crafts Master.
Personal Impression
The exhibition left a positive impression on me. It once again showed me how rich China’s history is, with its traditional arts and cultural significance. Each work of art showed immense patience, artistic skill and craftsmanship. It aroused my curiosity about Jingdezhen and its ceramic factories. I aspire to visit Jingdezhen and experience the art of ceramic making firsthand during my next trip to China.
A Visit to the Ceramic Exhibition
The exhibition can be visited until April 18, 2024.
Opening hours: Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Entrance is free.
I recommend everyone to visit the exhibition and experience the splendor of the Chinese ceramic tradition in The Hague.
Practical Information
China Cultural Center The Hague
Address: Spui 192A
2511 BW The Hague
The Netherlands
Website: China Cultural Center The Hague.
