Porcelain Sage
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The title "Porcelain Sage" is an honorary term used to refer to one or more craftsmen or artists in ancient China who achieved extremely high accomplishments in the field of porcelain art. This title reflects their outstanding skills and profound influence in porcelain creation. To date, only two individuals are known to have been honored with the title of "Porcelain Sage": He Chaozong and Wu Xiangrui, also known as Goro Daibu.
He Chaozong:
He Chaozong is considered the most representative porcelain sculptor of the Dehua kilns during the Jiajing and Wanli periods of the Ming Dynasty (approximately the 16th century). He is renowned for his exquisite white porcelain sculptures, particularly his religious figures such as Guanyin, Bodhidharma, Maitreya, Buddha, and Wenchang. He Chaozong's works are widely recognized for their lifelike form, high artistic value, and profound impact on later generations, earning him the title of "Porcelain Sage." His unique artistic style led to the creation of the "He School" of art. His works are rare and highly valued by collectors.
Wu Xiangrui, also known as Goro Daibu:
Although not as well-known as He Chaozong, Wu Xiangrui is also referred to as a "Porcelain Sage" by the Japanese people. Active during the Ming Dynasty, he made significant contributions to the development of Japan's native porcelain industry. His story highlights an aspect of cultural exchange in ceramics between China and Japan.