PRINCIPLES
OF COLLECTING ASIAN CERAMICS:
Buy
in Western Europe,
if
you can afford it.
Many of the coastal countries of
Europe such as Britain, Sweden and the Netherlands have engaged
in centuries of maritime trade with
Asian countries. They have been buying and selling Chinese Porcelain and (less so) Stoneware Ceramics for dozens of generations.
The trade in "Chinese white gold" is an important part of their illustrious
history and remains a source of great pride even today.
As a result,
there is a deep knowledge of and appreciation for ancient
Chinese Ceramic Art and it is
possible to collect through experienced and knowledgeable
sources.
As
well, northern Europeans are generally cautious (and pleasant) people
with great repugnance for counterfeit art.
Reputable dealers will generally stand behind what they sell and
are usually sincere in their trade. As a result, artefacts
acquired from such people and the main auction houses are
usually authentic.
European
trade with Asia began during the 16th century during the Ming
dynasty era and continued through the Qing dynasty and republic
eras. Therefore, most Chinese Ceramics available
are Blue and White Porcelain (high-fired white Ceramics with cobalt
blue decoration under a transparent glaze) and multi-coloured Porcelain
of the Qing dynasty.
Earlier
styles such as Whiteware Ceramics (such as Qingbai and Dingware) of the
Sung dynasty and other eras are not as common for the simple reason that no
one from Europe traveled to Asia during the time when they were being produced. Therefore, be wary of anyone who says he has lots of ancient Chinese whiteware that
was previously owned by a little old lady who inherited from a
great-great grandparent.
For collectors, the only downside to the happy situation in
Europe is the cost. Pieces acquired in these countries are expensive.
Go to the
Chalre
Collection
of
Asian Ceramic Art
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