It appears to glow, almost ethereally, in an enchanting pale jade hue, captivating the observer with its serene beauty. The term 'celadon,' coined by the Western world, scarcely encapsulates the depth of 青瓷 (qīngcí)'s mystique. In the East, it is known as 青瓷 (qīngcí), a name that resonates with the elegance and historical sagacity of this exquisite porcelain. Often mistaken for jade by Western observers due to its delicate pale green sheen, celadon holds a distinct identity and heritage that transcends this common misconception.
The origins of celadon, or qīngcí, trace back to the Northern Song Dynasty, around the year 960, marking the beginning of a remarkable evolution in ceramic artistry. This pale green porcelain has not only captivated artisans and emperors alike but has also woven itself into the fabric of cultural history, embodying a mystique that invites a closer look beyond its jade-like appearance.
Envision an artisan in the ancient realms of Zhejiang, where the mastery of ceramics transcends mere craft to become a revered art. In Longquan, a city whose very name has become synonymous with celadon—much like Champagne is to its sparkling wine in France—our pottery master fans the flames of his kiln, a beacon of tradition and excellence. Within these hallowed walls, he meticulously stirs his family's secret glaze recipe, a potion that conjures the spectrum of jade-like hues for which celadon is renowned.
With a practiced hand, he applies a deliberate layer of this liquid mystique to a hand-shaped gaiwan (蓋碗), or tea bowl with its matching saucer and lid. The thickness of the glaze, he knows, is a delicate dance that dictates the final embrace of green that will cloak the ceramic—a spectrum from the palest mint to the deepest forest tones.
Anticipation fills the air as he envisions his clients, the connoisseurs of white and green teas, cradling the gaiwan. The seamless glaze of the celadon ensures the pristine preservation of the teas' delicate flavors and aromas. Bai Mudan (White Peony) from the neighboring realm of Fujian, along with the tender shoots of Longjing tea, will reveal their subtle treasures untainted in these vessels. These lighter teas, unmarred by extensive roasting or oxidation, transform into elixirs of purity and grace within the embrace of the Longquan celadon gaiwan. Against the celadon's serene backdrop, the ethereal hues of the tea resemble a living canvas, where the art of pottery and the art of tea drinking converge in a celebration of elegance and tradition.
How an Aristocrat Serves with Celadon
In the opulent households of ancient Zhejiang, the art of hosting was elevated to sublime heights, with celadon wares playing a central role in the dance of hospitality. Imagine the scene: a grand estate nestled in the lush landscapes of Zhejiang, where the elite of the ancient kingdom gather, eager to partake in the refined pleasures of a well-appointed tea ceremony.
As guests enter the resplendent reception hall, their eyes are drawn to the array of celadon wares meticulously arranged on a carved rosewood table. The soft glow of lantern light catches the intricate glaze of each piece, their jade-like surfaces a testament to the wealth and sophistication of their host.
1. The teapot. The ceremony begins with the host, a figure of esteem and grace, unveiling the prized celadon teapot—a masterpiece of Longquan craftsmanship. Its lustrous sheen, achieved through centuries-old firing techniques, reflects the ambient light, creating a mesmerizing display.
2. The ritual. The guests watch in hushed admiration as the host performs the tea ritual with deliberate and practiced movements, each gesture a symbol of respect and camaraderie.
Water, heated to the perfect temperature (around 80°C or 170°F) in a bronze kettle, is poured into the celadon teapot, over leaves of the finest Longjing tea. The choice of celadon for this ritual is no mere coincidence; it is believed that the unique properties of the glaze not only enhance the visual appeal of the tea but also elevate its flavor, lending a subtle earthiness that complements the tea’s natural sweetness.
3. The teacups. The guests, each in turn, are presented with their own celadon cups—delicate to the touch, yet resonant with history. The gracious hosts pours the hot water from the kettle to warm their teacups as well, while they await for the tea to steep. To pass the time, the host shares tales of the celadon's journey from the kilns of Longquan to their esteemed household, each piece a cherished link to the cultural heritage of Zhejiang. The act of drinking from these ethereal vessels binds the company in a moment of collective appreciation.
The use of celadon wares in any household not only showcases the host’s impeccable taste, but also serves as a bridge to the past, connecting the present gathering with the traditions and artistry of ancient China. Celadon becomes more than just a medium for serving tea; it is the "jade" of porcelain, a vessel of culture, a symbol of the enduring beauty and sophistication of Chinese tea culture.