Northern celadons
Northern celadons refers to the group of high-fired green-glazed stonewares produced across northern China, particularly in present-day Shaanxi and Henan provinces, from the Tang period through the Northern Song and Jin periods. These wares share technological foundations in reduction-fired, iron-bearing glazes, but differ from southern celadon traditions in glaze color, body composition, and kiln structure.
Historical Context
The northern celadon tradition developed under the influence of regional stoneware production and the availability of local raw materials. During the Tang and Five Dynasties periods, northern celadons circulated throughout the North China Plain and into administrative, monastic, and funerary contexts. By the Northern Song period, the Yaozhou kilns became the principal center of northern celadon production, continuing into the Jin period after political control shifted.
Materials and Technical Characteristics
Northern celadons are distinguished by:
- Stoneware bodies that fire to gray or buff in cross-section
- Celadon glazes ranging from olive to gray-green
- Controlled reduction firing producing modulation in glaze depth and tone
Compared to southern celadons:
- Glazes are typically thinner
- Surface tone is more olive or gray-green than blue-green
- Kiln forms and fuel environments differ, affecting cooling and glaze quality
Kiln Systems
Northern celadons were produced at multiple kiln sites. The most important is the Yaozhou kiln system in present-day Shaanxi, though related production occurred in Henan and adjacent regions.
| Principal Center | Location (Modern) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yaozhou kilns (耀州窑) | Tongchuan, Shaanxi | Largest and most technically developed northern celadon group |
| Henan regional kilns | Henan Province | Related traditions with similar glazes but distinct vessel typology |
Forms
Typical vessel forms include:
- Bowls and dishes with interior carved, incised, or molded decoration
- Small bottles and pouring vessels
- Boxes and lidded containers
Decoration depends on relief and glaze pooling rather than contrasting color fields.
Cultural Significance
Northern celadons represent a major aesthetic and technical alternative to southern celadon traditions. They are significant for:
- Their continuity across major political transitions
- Their influence on court and monastic material culture
- Their development of carved-decorated celadon surfaces
