Porcelaine of Eastern and Western Households: Similarities and Differences

Abstract

As known from history, clay has been an integral part of early human life during pre-era period. It also served as a means of protection for prehistoric humans against unfortunate events in nature besides serving their practical purposes. They referred to the vessels covered with transparent glaze as "safol" and the ones covered with opaque glaze as "porcelain". China vessels are household elements that have existed in the material-culture history of every nation during various periods. Whether preserved in Western or Eastern state museums, the porcelain vessels demonstrate that the art of pottery has developed significantly since the early Middle Ages. Fine china is not only used as household items but are also employed in the production of various other material artifacts. Countries around the world utilize china as a means to convey their own culture. The article focuses on ceramic factories established in different countries during the 16th to 19th centuries, their developmental direction, as well as the examination of various decorated household objects such as cups, saucers, teapots, and vases with unique arrangements and designs that are preserved in the National Museum of Azerbaijan History. All of these mentioned aspects further emphasize the importance of studying the material culture of households and its individual components.