Tang tri-colored Glazed Pottery

Tang tri-colored Glazed Pottery (Tangsancai), a type of glazed pottery with the colors of yellow, brown and green, was prevailed in the Tang dynasty. It has been famous for its bright colors and pleasing shapes.

Tang tri-colored glazed pottery was made by adding metallic oxides to the colored glaze. During firing process the chemicals in the glaze change gradually and create a variegated effect with a majestic and elegant artistic appearance. Tang tri-colored Glazed Pottery was mostly made in Xian and Luoyang, the capital cities of Tang dynasty. After the Tang Dynasty, tri-colored glazed pottery declined. Although tri-colored glazed pottery was also produced during the Liao and Jin dynasties, it was not made in such large quantity and its quality was not as good as that of the Tang dynasty.

Tang tri-colored Glazed Pottery was purposely made as the burial objects at that time. Its loose base and low waterproofing properties showed it was not as practical as the porcelain already emerged. Most of tri-colored Tang potteries unearthed from the tombs of landlords or noblemen of the Tang dynasty proved it.

Tang tri-colored glazed pottery wares of the Tang were usually round and full in shape in accordance with the aesthetic values of the time. The well-proportioned human and animal figurines have smooth lines, natural expressions and life-like movements. The soldier figurines have strong muscles, big staring eyes and wield swords or arrows. The female figurines with a fining and graceful looking, have high hair buns and full sleeves. The animal figures are mainly of horses and camels.