Ji’an ware

Chinese whiteware

Also known as: Kian ware

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

Ji'an ware, also known as Kian ware, was a type of Chinese whiteware produced in Yonghe, near Ji'an in Jiangxi province, during the Song dynasty. These wares are considered imitations of Ding ware, and it is believed that the kilns were established by refugees from northern China. While Ji'an ware was known for its white body, it struggled to compete with the output of Jingdezhen and ceased production by the end of the Song dynasty.1

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Chinese pottery
Late Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties
These Ji’an, or Kian, wares appear to be imitations of Ding, and there may be truth in the tradition that the kilns were set up by refugees from the north. The Yonghe kilns were unable to compete with Jingdezhen, however, and had ceased production by the…
Read More
These Ji’an, or Kian, wares appear to be imitations of Ding, and there may be truth in the tradition that the kilns were set up by refugees from the north. The Yonghe kilns were unable to compete with Jingdezhen, however, and had ceased production by the…
Read More