What are the distinguishing characteristics of Chinese ceramics, and how have styles such as porcelain and celadon influenced global trade and cultural exchange throughout history?
How has contemporary Chinese art addressed political and social issues, especially since the Cultural Revolution, and which artists have been at the forefront of this movement?
What role did imperial patronage play in the development and preservation of Chinese art throughout the different dynasties, such as the Ming and Qing dynasties?
How have traditional Chinese painting techniques, such as shan shui (mountain and water) landscapes, evolved in response to modern influences and global art movements?
What role did art play in ancient Chinese court life, and how were artworks used to communicate power, status, or religious beliefs during various dynastic periods?
How do Chinese landscape paintings reflect the cultural and philosophical views of nature, and what techniques do artists use to convey a sense of harmony and balance?
In what ways have Chinese ceramics and porcelain impacted global art and trade, and what are some of the most renowned styles or dynasties associated with them?