Chapter 10
附录
Appendix
623
of 659
Page 623

English Translation

Whether the spout should be curved or straight, whether the lid should be domed or flat, whether the body should be tall or short—if one focuses solely on the convenience of brewing and drinking tea as the starting point, then one knows only reason but lacks interest. The appreciation of an art form should encompass both reason and interest. Regardless of whether a work is large or small, whether the spout is clear or straight, whether the lid is domed or flat, whether the form is tall or squat, what matters is that it possesses interest. Interest is what generates emotion, nurtures the spirit, and makes something endlessly enjoyable. Therefore, when appreciating a new form, one should only begin to evaluate it after comprehending the essence of its beauty. Starting from such an aesthetic attitude, one can earn the sincere resonance of those who universally love the art of purple clay. Of course, as a practical craft object, its functionality is also extremely important. Comfort in use can delight body and mind and inspire harmonious interest. Therefore, one must also consider the capacity of the pot body, the smooth flow of water from the spout, and the ease and comfort of holding the handle according to tea-drinking habits and customs. All of these must be considered as specific aspects of the work. Historically speaking, the appreciation of purple clay pottery craftsmanship has always been divided into three levels: First is the elegant artistic level. It must be both reasonable and interesting, possessing both form and spirit, with exquisite craftsmanship that captivates the viewer—appealing to both refined and popular tastes, making it a treasured object that people cannot bear to put down. Only then can it be considered superior. Second refers to finely crafted work with complete form, mass-produced and aimed at the market as high-grade commodities. Third is ordinary products—everyday items that vary in size and form according to local customs and living habits, with average craftsmanship, widely popular among the common people. What we emphasize here is the art object. In the content and form of a vessel, it contains the internal connections of many factors. The perfection of form and the refinement of craftsmanship are naturally the primary elements. Next is the addition of decoration to the complete form, making the work even more splendid and enriching its visual appeal. Here one must examine the appropriateness of the patterns, the selection of decorative materials (choosing materials according to the theme and content), and the methods of execution. All of these are specifically and subtly tied to the cultivation level of the creator and the discernment of the appreciator. For example: the traditional decoration of purple clay art—"pottery carving"—first requires consideration of the content reflected in the inscription. It must embody literary vocabulary that is emotionally and rationally appropriate, the beauty of calligraphy and painting, the elegance of style, and the precision of awl and knife techniques with the flavor of metal and stone, enabling people to appreciate and savor the object endlessly. As for sculptural works that imitate natural forms, as well as relief and appliqué decoration on geometric forms, impressed patterns, glaze painting, inlays of other materials, and abstract ceramic art concepts—any art form should originate from life yet transcend life. Looking down from this elevated perspective to evaluate and critique...