The Imperial Kiln Factory National Archaeological Site Park in Taoyangli, Jingdezhen: A Historical Monument of Ceramic Culture
Jingdezhen, known as the "Porcelain Capital," carries a millennium of porcelain-making history and culture. Among the numerous relics associated with it, the Imperial Kiln Factory National Archaeological Site Park in Taoyangli stands out like a dazzling pearl, shimmering with a unique brilliance. It is not only an outstanding example of ancient Chinese ceramic craftsmanship, but also a living historical textbook, showcasing the glorious past of the imperial kilns of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Entering the Imperial Kiln Factory National Archaeological Site Park is like stepping back in time, to an era of smoke and fire, where artisans meticulously crafted porcelain. The rich collection of porcelain remains here vividly recreates the glorious production scenes of the Imperial Kiln Factory. Every broken piece of porcelain and every well-preserved kiln relic tells a story. Like a jigsaw puzzle, these relics gradually piece together a complete picture of the ancient Imperial Kiln Factory's production, offering a glimpse into the highly advanced porcelain-making technology and rigorous production management systems of that time.
The architecture within the park is also unique. The Dragon Pearl Pavilion, a landmark and city emblem of Jingdezhen, was originally built in the Tang Dynasty and rebuilt in 1990. It features a "four-in-hidden-six" architectural layout. Its location, surrounded by five small mountain ranges, gives it the shape and imposing presence of five dragons fighting for a pearl, hence its name. It is not only an exquisite ancient building but also a witness to history. Standing atop the Dragon Pearl Pavilion, overlooking the surroundings, one can experience a rich cultural atmosphere and a profound sense of history. The Imperial Kiln Museum, designed by Professor Zhu Pei, Dean of the School of Architecture at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, comprises eight hyperbolic arches of varying sizes and volumes, inspired by Jingdezhen's traditional egg-shaped wood-fired kilns. The building won the "Best Cultural Building" award at the 2017 Future Architecture Awards in Cannes, France, and was named one of the "Top Ten Museums in the World" in 2020. The museum displays Ming and Qing dynasty porcelain fragments and replicas unearthed from the Imperial Kiln Factory site, many of which are rare and exceptional, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic charm of ancient porcelain up close.
In addition to admiring the architecture and exhibits, visitors can also gain an in-depth understanding of the ceramic production process. Detailed displays and explanations cover every step, from raw material selection to molding and firing. In the porcelain workshop, conservators utilize a multi-level classification and serial restoration method to address the artifacts' specific symptoms, restoring them to their original appearance to the greatest extent possible while ensuring their safety. Over 4,000 pieces of porcelain have been restored to their former glory, providing valuable material for the study of ancient ceramics.
The scenic area also emphasizes cultural preservation and innovation. The Taoyangli Imperial Kiln Scenic Area blends the past and the present, introducing new businesses such as music bars and a red-shop street, injecting new vitality into the ancient site. This combination of traditional culture and modern elements preserves the historical charm while meeting the diverse needs of contemporary people. Visitors can experience not only traditional ceramic culture but also a fashionable lifestyle, seamlessly integrating culture and life.