A Comparative Study of Chinese and British Ceramic Medicine Pots in the 17th and 18th Centuries

Authors

  • Chuying Liu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/3pnjqa65

Keywords:

17th-18th Centuries, China, Britain, Ceramic Medicine Pots, Comparison

Abstract

A large quantity of Chinese ceramics was imported to Britain in the 17th to the 18th centuries, which inspired the local production of medicine pots. Through physical comparisons, literature review, and image analysis, the author explored the similarities and differences between the ceramic medicine pots of China and Britain in shape, decoration, and craftsmanship, as well as the medical traditions, production conditions, and cultural contexts behind them. Despite visual convergence the shape and craftsmanship of the medicine pots of two countries differed, reflecting asynchronous style borrowing and technological diffusion, as well as the recipient's trade-off and re-creation based on local demands.

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References

[1] Zou Minru, Zhan Jia. Analysis of Ancient Chinese Medicine Ceramic Decoction Apparatus [J]. Chinese Ceramic Industry, 2024, 31 (06): 117-123.

[2] Hudson, Briony, ed. English Delftware Drug Jars: The Collection of the Museum of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 2006.

[3] Zhang Yutian, Wu Zhenfeng, Yu Huicheng, Yu Huanhuan, Zhang Na, Sun Dongyan, Zhang Jiaying, Luo Weiliang, Yang Ming, Zhang Guolong, Zhang Qun. Development Strategy for Digitalization and Intelligence of Traditional Chinese Herbal Decoction Methods Guided by Pharmacological Properties [J]. Chinese Traditional and Herbal Drugs, 2025, 56 (24): 8869-8880.

[4] Charas M. Pharmacopée royale galenique et chymique [M]. Paris, 1676: 162.

[5] Yang Yongshan, Yang Jingrong. Chinese Ceramics [M]. Taipei: Shu Shin Publishing Company, 1988: 175.

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Published

30-03-2026

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Liu, C. (2026). A Comparative Study of Chinese and British Ceramic Medicine Pots in the 17th and 18th Centuries. Highlights in Art and Design, 13(3), 56-60. https://doi.org/10.54097/3pnjqa65