Planeware
2008-2013
Ceramics is not an independent craft, it has evolved in a complex environment of discourse with other craft traditions. In Chinese ceramics this condition is reflected in the prevalence of skeuomorphisms, with ceramic vessels emulating the forms and manufacturing artifacts of more “valuable” metalworking traditions including bronze, silver and gold.
A fine small parcel-gilt silver bowl
A rare white stoneware lobed oval bowl
Ceramics is not an independent craft, it has evolved in a complex environment of discourse with other craft traditions. In Chinese ceramics this condition is reflected in the prevalence of skeuomorphisms, with ceramic vessels emulating the forms and manufacturing artifacts of more “valuable” metalworking traditions including bronze, silver and gold.
From Sotheby's 2008 Auction Masterpieces of Chinese Precious Metalwork, Early Gold and Silver; Early Chinese White, Green and Black Wares
The Planeware series is an exploration of the relationship between metalworking and ceramics. Unlike traditional ceramics that emulate the appearance of metalwork, Planeware adopts the techniques and tools of metalsmithing to construct vessels with slabs of porcelain clay that have similar working characteristics to sheet metal. Rather than “borrowing value” from precious metals crafts, Planeware is instead influenced by the humble trade of the tinsmith.
Tinsmith's workshop. Jingdezhen, 2008.
Tinsmith's workshop. Jingdezhen, 2008.
First International Triennale of Kogei in Kanazawa
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Kanazawa, Japan.
