Tang Sancai Pottery
Tang Sancai refers to the lead-fluxed glazes that dominated Tang dynasty ceramic production. Despite the name, the palette includes cream, amber, green, and blue tones, often splashed together to create flowing effects. These wares were primarily funerary objects.
Production and Technique
Sancai wares use earthenware bodies covered with low-fired lead glazes. The lead flux allows brilliant colors at relatively low temperatures. Copper produces green tones, iron creates amber and cream, and cobalt provides blue.
Tomb Figures and Vessels
The most famous sancai objects are tomb figures—camels, horses, guardians, and attendants placed in burials. These sculptures range from small to life-size, with the largest examples showing remarkable technical achievement.