ARTH 350 - Studies in the History of Ceramics: Ceramic "Bodies"

• J - 9:00-11:30
• EV-1.615
• INSTRUCTOR: DR. SUSAN SURETTE

This course explores ceramics around the world and through the ages by mapping multiple intersections of clay/ceramics and “bodies.” At the most basic level, “bodies” will be understood in physical terms of different kinds of clay that form the starting point of the ceramic object, but at another level we will look at the metaphoric relationship between the clay object and the human body. Ceramic production and consumption of ceramic objects, both vessels and figurines or sculptures play an integral role within human life cycles, associated with key transitional moments, and ceramic objects will be considered in relationship to representations of and rituals involving the reproductive and deceased body, among others. We will look at larger figurative sculpture and smaller figurines as well as the body as surface decoration on vessels. Physical and social bodies formed through ceramic practice, consumption and use will also be considered, including the gendered body as consumer. Lastly we will explore expressions of the body in contemporary conceptual ceramics. Specific works to be studied include the Emperor Qin’s Terra Cotta Army, Greek Red and Black Figure vessels, Nazca warrior jars, Della Robbia’s maiolica Renaissance sculptures, Meissen porcelain figures, the Japanese Tea Ceremony, and contemporary folk pottery in Japan and Korea.