Chinese ancient ceramics are considered shining jewels in the vast treasure of human culture and art. Over time, due to various factors such as environmental exposure, handling, or improper storage, most ceramic artifacts suffer different levels of damage. To preserve these cultural treasures for future generations, here are four professional recommendations for their care and handling:
First, the best way to store porcelain is in a custom-made box lined with soft materials like sponge or foam pads. Avoid placing two pieces together unless they are separated by a layer of foam. If displaying porcelain, it's best to place it on a solid wooden shelf made from high-quality wood. This minimizes vibrations and ensures stability.
Second, always keep your hands clean and dry when handling porcelain. Remove any jewelry, especially rings, as they can scratch the delicate glaze. It’s also advisable not to wear gloves, as they may reduce your grip and increase the risk of dropping the piece. For larger items that are composed of multiple parts, such as bottles or vases, avoid holding only the neck or upper section. Instead, support the base with one hand and the neck with the other to prevent separation of the joined parts. Many sculptures and vessels have decorative elements like handles or ears. Never lift them by these parts, as they are often fragile. Always grasp the main body of the object, not the handle or any protruding parts, which could break easily. When dealing with covered objects, such as bowls or jars, remove the lid and base separately before moving them to avoid accidental damage.
Third, when handling figurines or sculptures, be extra cautious with delicate areas like the hair, fingers, or head, as these are more prone to breaking. Never lift a sculpture with just one hand, especially if the head or limbs are attached directly to the body. Hold the statue firmly with one hand on the back and the other on the base to maintain its integrity. When lifting large plates or bowls, use both hands to ensure even weight distribution and prevent cracking. If multiple people are viewing the artifact, make sure each person takes turns and places the item on a stable surface before the next person handles it. Never pass the porcelain between two people at once, as this increases the risk of accidents.
Fourth, for regular maintenance, you can gently wipe the surface of the porcelain with a damp cloth. Use a soft brush to remove dust and clean hard-to-reach areas. However, never immerse unglazed ceramics in water, as they are highly absorbent and can become damaged. Some unearthed ceramics have a very porous surface, and washing them might cause the outer layer to crumble into powder. It’s important to handle these pieces with care and avoid unnecessary cleaning unless absolutely necessary.
Hubei Chengze Diamod Products Co., Ltd. , https://www.ryomaltools.com