Common Features of the Sea Waves and Cliffs Pattern on Ming and Qing Porcelain and Textiles

The object of this study is the "sea waves and cliffs" (海水江崖纹) pattern. The subject of the study is its application on porcelain and textiles of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The main attention is paid to the origin of the pattern and the process of its intermedia dissemination, with an emphasis on a comparative analysis of the compositional structure, color scheme and technical methods of execution. Not only the symbolic significance, but also the transformation of the artistic qualities of the pattern are revealed. The study analyzes how the "sea waves and cliffs", with their auspicious meaning, were transformed from an imperial symbol on Ming porcelain into a decoration of Manchu palace garments of the Qing era, and then into a motif accessible to the common people. Then, the continuity and innovations in the application of this pattern in modern textile design, as well as its viability in the context of contemporary artistic practice are considered. The study shows that the “sea waves and cliffs” pattern retains its symbolic essence in different applications, but at the same time acquires different visual forms depending on the material and technique of execution. It is a striking example of cultural diffusion. The methodological basis of the study includes two main approaches: the analysis of written sources and the study of museum exhibits. The study offers a new interdisciplinary approach that combines art history and cultural studies, as well as the theory of cultural communication. This study partially fills the gap in the study of intermedia aspects of traditional decorative patterns, offering a new academic approach to their analysis. In addition, the work can serve as a basis for the integration of traditional motifs into modern design and artistic planning. Unlike previous works, which focused mainly on the imperial symbolism of the pattern, this study for the first time carries out a comparative analysis of the pattern on porcelain and textiles, identifying key aesthetic and technological differences; examines the evolution of the pattern in the context of its contemporary interpretation, focusing on the changing symbolic meaning and role of the pattern in the fashion industry, interior design and digital art; summarizes historical and art history information, demonstrating how the traditional pattern is adapting to modern design trends.

Chinese art, decorative arts, Ming Dynasty, Qing Dynasty, pattern, porcelain, textile, intercultural communication, Silk Road, waves and cliffs