Study on the coloration mechanism of Jingdezhen ox-hair pattern copper-red glaze

As a classic representative of Jingdezhen’s high-temperature colored glazes, the ox-hair pattern derived from copper-red glaze surfaces embodies a distinctive visual symbol of Eastern aesthetics. This study systematically deciphers the coloration mechanism of ox-hair-patterned copper-red glazes using modern materials science methodologies (EDXRF, OM, TEM, SEM, XPS, UV–Vis). The research confirms that microscopic examination of the glaze layer reveals crystal-enriched zones with significantly higher crystal density compared to surrounding areas. These zones exhibit vivid red hues attributed to nanoscale Cu2O particles (10–30 nm in diameter). Crucially, these particles do not disperse randomly but undergo ordered aggregation and enrichment along entrapped bubble interfaces. This directional enrichment not only intensifies the visual impact of the red zones but also elucidates the unique behavior and interaction mechanisms of nanoparticles within the glaze layer. The study identifies the primary chromogenic substances in ox-hair-patterned copper-red glazes, providing a technical and theoretical foundation for further research into process control.