Table 2 Characteristics of the abdominal and handle shapes of the six types of ceramic vessels

Vessel Bodies

Cylindrical

(直筒形)

(1) Exhibits an upright cylindrical form, with sides parallel or slightly tapering inwards; (2) The base is generally flat, occasionally with a slight concave indentation; (3) The top rim may be upright or slightly flared outwards

Barrel-shaped

(桶形)

(1) Features a gentle curvature on the sides, resembling a barrel shape; (2) The base is wider than the top, yet both are proportionally balanced; (3) The top rim is usually thicker to augment structural stability

Bulbous Cup Body

(鼓腹形)

(1) The base is narrower, with the middle expanding into a bulbous form; (2) The top edge may be thinner, creating a contrast with the expanded body

Gourd-shaped

(葫芦形)

(1) Displays a two-tier structure, either narrow at the top and wide at the bottom or vice versa; (2) Often characterized by a distinct neck

Square (方形)

The four sides are straight and angular

Irregular-shaped

(异形)

(1) An irregular shape, without a fixed geometric form; (2) May incorporate a combination of various design elements, such as a round base with a square mouth

Handles

Entwined Branch Handle

(缠枝状)

(1) Mimics the form of naturally entwined branches, featuring complex curves; (2) Surface details may include textures resembling tree bark or small knots; (3) Structurally emphasizes a balance between aesthetics and practicality

Bamboo Joint Handle

(竹节状)

(1) Imitates the shape of bamboo nodes, with clear separation between sections; (2) The surface often has lines simulating bamboo patterns; (3) Design focuses on simplicity and naturalness; (4) Exhibits varying degrees of bending

Ear-shaped Handle

(耳廓状)

(1) Resembles the shape of human or animal ears, being semi-circular or oval; (2) May feature simple or decorative edges; (3) Aesthetically seeks harmony with the main body of the object; (4) Common in classic or traditional style items; (5) Carries significant symbolic meaning or decorative effect

Inward Convex Handle

(内凸状)

(1) Presents an inwardly convex design; (2) Balances ergonomics and functionality in its form; (3) Used in objects requiring a firm grip; (4) Visually more subtle or integrated into the overall design of the object

Inward Curved Handle

(内弧状)

(1) Characterized by an inwardly curving arc; (2) Structurally designed for comfortable gripping; (3) Often harmonizes with the overall curvature of the object; (4) May feature a streamlined aesthetic typical of modern design

Outward Curved Handle

(外翘状)

(1) Shaped with an outward flare or curve; (2) Emphasizes dynamism and visual impact in its form; (3) Used in objects with a strong personality, often in modern or abstract styles; (4) Functionally designed for ease of grasping and carrying