The definition and origin of celadon— A re-discussion on the name of proto-celadon

Abstract

Academic circles hold that celadon stemmed from proto-celadon and reached maturity in the late Eastern Han dynasty (2nd C CE). However, the name proto-celadon was a compromise resulting from academic argument and without any scientific basis and there are obvious logical errors in the original definition of celadon. After analyzing and discussing, the new definition of celadon is established, which is, the body raw material should be kaolin, there is a high-temperature glaze on its body surface and the original firing temperature should be equal to or higher than 1100°C. Now it can be said that the so-called proto-celadon is virtually celadon, and the date of origin of the celadon should be advanced to the Xia dynasty at least.