Category:Three Kingdoms

The Three Kingdoms period (三国时期, 220–280 CE) followed the decline of the Han dynasty and was characterized by political division among the states of Wei (魏), Shu (蜀), and Wu (吴). Although the era is marked by military conflict and shifting territorial boundaries, it also represents a significant transitional phase in administrative structure, regional identity, and material culture across East Asia.

Craft production during this period became increasingly regionalized. The decline of centralized state workshops was accompanied by the strengthening of local kiln systems and artisan communities. Ceramic production continued to develop the high-fired stoneware traditions that emerged during the late Han period, with expansions in kiln size, firing temperature control, and the use of ash and celadon-like glazes.

Distinctive ceramic developments include:

• Growth of high-fired gray and black stonewares with polished surfaces
• Early forms of proto-celadon glazes in the lower Yangtze region, particularly in territories associated with Eastern Wu
• Increased specialization in vessel shapes for daily use, storage, and funerary contexts, reflecting changing social and domestic environments

Bronze casting, lacquer production, and textile manufacturing continued, though on a more localized basis. Regional centers developed their own stylistic vocabularies and workshop practices, contributing to the diversification of artistic expression.

The Three Kingdoms period is significant for the decentralization of artistic and craft production. The material foundations laid in this era would directly support the technological and aesthetic developments of the subsequent Western Jin and Southern–Northern dynasties, including the full emergence of celadon traditions in southern China and the consolidation of regional ceramic identities.