Unblemished Colours - Masterpieces of Chinese Monochrome Pocelain, 8th-18th century

Catalog for the exhibition Unblemished Colours. Masterpieces of Chinese Monochrome Porcelain, presented at the Musée national des arts asiatiques - Guimet, Paris (June 12 - September 16, 2024).

Porcelain is famous throughout the world today because of the purity of the kaolin body, which, when fired at high temperatures, can be absolutely white. This medium fascinated Europe and remained exclusive to China until the 18th century.

Firing at very high temperatures, however, makes color development difficult, as the number of pigments that can withstand the high heat is reduced. Chinese potters never ceased to try and master new colors in order to satisfy the princes and the demand for perfection linked to the use of porcelain in rituals. A ceaseless quest for purity, until they found the perfect shape and color, resulting in unique pieces of great

The presentation of these pieces, some of which are over 2,000 years old but incredibly modern, aims to show the privileged place of porcelain in Chinese civilization, and to make the reader feel the dazzlement and admiration that embrace the heart, eye and hand of anyone who, in China, comes face to face with perfect porcelain.