Liao Ceramics: Archaeological Discoveries and a Literature Review

This chapter reviews the literature and summarizes that the discovery and research of Liao Dynasty ceramics can be broadly divided into three stages. The initial phase, spanning from the early twentieth century to the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, was primarily characterized by Japanese looting of Liao kiln sites, tombs, and cities, along with the seizure of excavated ceramics. The second stage, from 1949 to 1972, marked the preliminary accumulation of unearthed Liao ceramics and kiln tools, as well as some early comprehensive studies, featuring investigations into Liao kiln sites and the recovery of numerous ceramics from scientifically excavated tombs. The third stage, from 1972 to the present, has seen a significant increase in unearthed Liao ceramics and deeper regional research, driven by large-scale excavations of Liao kiln sites and a substantial rise in ceramic artifacts unearthed from Liao tombs and pagodas. The chapter also provides a comprehensive list of the unearthed Liao ceramics.