China-Jun Porcelain surprises Beijing

China-Jun Porcelain has been historically prized for its astounding mix of colors, and patterns of glaze that never repeat. Now, the public can view the top-most works of Jun porcelain in Beijing.

Jun is of unique quality among the many types of Chinese porcelains. Interestingly, when the clay is heated in a kiln, even the maker has no clear idea how the glaze would look once finished.

This uncertainty produces unexpected but extremely delightful results. The plate "Nirvana" is a perfect example. The "phoenix" in the center was formed unintentionally during the heating process.

But such eye-boggling changes do not happen entirely by chance. It needs very careful handling of heating temperature, and intricate placement of the clay in the kiln.

Jun is one of the most renowned types of 10th century porcelain. It is also the first in history to have such a variety of colors. Jun porcelain is now under protection by the Chinese government as a national intangible cultural heritage.