Chats on Oriental China

"Chats on Oriental China" by J. F. (James F.) Blacker is a handbook designed for those captivated by the world of Oriental porcelain collecting. Acting as a guide, the book goes over the historical context, unique attributes, and collector considerations surrounding these specific ceramic creations. The pages highlight the profound cultural and symbolic importance embedded in Chinese porcelain, intertwining information about different eras and styles that contribute to its beauty. Readers are encouraged to begin an enriching journey into the world of collecting Oriental porcelain, promoted through a well-developed and meaningful understanding of its complexities. The value of illustrations is discussed, with the author suggesting careful study of the corresponding captions to glean more knowledge about the works depicted. Challenges encountered by collectors, such as the prevalence of fakes and the necessity of keen observation, are identified. Setting the tone for the following topics, the introduction lays the groundwork by examining elements of porcelain, from the mythical and religious sources that influence its adornment to actionable strategies for spotting genuine artifacts.