Ever wondered how people kept cool before air conditioning? In ancient China, one unique solution was the use of ceramic pillows. These weren’t the soft pillows we’re used to today but carefully crafted porcelain pieces that offered a cool and stable rest during hot summer nights.
One remarkable example is a porcelain pillow from the Song Dynasty, produced in the famed Cizhou kiln. Adorned with a vivid lotus motif painted in green, yellow, and white, the design is lively and energetic, with flowing lines capturing the essence of the lotus flower.
Cool to the touch and artistically crafted, this porcelain pillow wasn’t just functional—it was a work of art. It reflected the Song aesthetic of quiet elegance and daily refinement, embodying a blend of comfort and beauty that was cherished in ancient Chinese households.
These ceramic pillows offer us a glimpse into the ingenuity and artistry of ancient China. They remind us that the pursuit of comfort and elegance has always been a part of human history—even when it comes to beating the summer heat!
