Microstructure reflects the environment of firing and production technique. Possibly we can say some microstructure such as pin hole or blister is the defection of ceramic production.  Even in modern industrial production potter is still facing such problem.

Let us take a look at Chinese blue and white porcelain. Those ware from the same kiln and same period shares the similar features. To find them is helpful for us to identify the authentic pieces from thousands fakes in the market nowadays.

Using normal microscopes, which we can get in market easily, we can see bubbles on the surface of porcelain ware. Except for it, blister, pin hole, black speck, and weathered glaze-phenomenon could be obtained.  Actually, pin hole and black speck could be observed by naked eyes. However, under the microscope we can more detailed structure, which helps us to distinguish them.

Using microscope to study the porcelain ware, the big advantage is that we will not damage the object. But we have to keep in our mind that these microstructures could not to be the main testimony to prove the authenticity of one item. For one porcelain ware, we do not need to do further microstructure investigation if it cannot confirm to be authentic by handling. In other words, for those suspicious porcelain pieces, we could put them away if we could not find the characteristic structure which should be there or the wrong structure appears or some doubtful structure shows up.

Here typical microstructures of blue and white porcelain from different eras will show in pictures.  Please contact us if you have any comments or questions.

The dynasty/time producing blue and white porcelain in China:

Yuan period (1279-1368 AD.)

Ming period (1368-1644 AD.)

Qing period (1644-1911 AD.)

Later on till nowadays……