When exploring Chinese ceramics, few names carry the same cultural significance as Ru Porcelain. Known for its elegant sky blue glaze, smooth jade-like texture, and quiet beauty, Ru Porcelain is considered one of the greatest achievements in Chinese ceramic history.

For readers who are new to this traditional Chinese ceramic art, our guide [What Is Ru Porcelain?] introduces its origins, cultural significance, and why it remains one of China's most treasured porcelain traditions.

However, many people encounter different terms such as Ruyao, Ru Ware, and Ru Porcelain and wonder:

Are they the same thing?

What are the differences between them?

Does modern Ru Porcelain represent the same tradition as the famous Song Dynasty Ru Kiln?

Understanding these terms helps us better appreciate the history, craftsmanship, and artistic value behind each piece.

What Is Ruyao (Ru Kiln)? 

Ruyao (汝窑) literally means “Ru Kiln.”

The word “Ru” refers to Ruzhou (汝州) in Henan Province, China, while “Yao” means kiln. Therefore, Ruyao originally refers to the historical kiln where these legendary ceramics were produced.

During the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127), Ruyao became one of the most prestigious imperial kilns, creating ceramics specially appreciated by the royal court.

Traditional Ruyao pieces are famous for:

•  Soft sky blue glaze
•  Elegant and minimal forms
•  Fine natural crackle patterns
•  Smooth, jade-like surfaces

Unlike many other Chinese ceramics produced on a large scale, Ruyao had a very short production period. After the decline of the Northern Song Dynasty, the original Ru kiln disappeared, making surviving Song Dynasty Ru Ware extremely rare today.

Therefore, when we mention Ruyao, we are usually referring specifically to the historical kiln and its original tradition.

What Is Ru Ware?

Ru Ware (汝瓷) refers to the ceramic works produced in the tradition of the Ru Kiln.

Simply explained:

•  Ruyao = the kiln
•  Ru Ware = the ceramic pieces made from that tradition

Historical Song Dynasty Ru Ware represents the original imperial ceramics created during the Northern Song Dynasty.

Today, the term “Ru Ware” may also describe modern ceramics inspired by the traditional Ru kiln style, especially those that continue the classic characteristics of Ru Porcelain, such as:

•  Sky blue glaze
•  Simple Song Dynasty-inspired shapes
•  Natural crackle effects
•  Refined craftsmanship

Modern Ru Ware is not the same as ancient imperial Ru Ware, but it continues the artistic philosophy and aesthetic spirit of the original tradition.

What Is Ru Porcelain?

Ru Porcelain is the most commonly used English term today for this ceramic tradition.

For international audiences, “Ru Porcelain” provides a clearer understanding that these works are porcelain objects associated with the Ru kiln heritage.

In modern usage, Ru Porcelain generally refers to:

•  Contemporary handmade porcelain inspired by Ruyao aesthetics
•  Tea ware, vases, incense ware, and decorative objects
•  Pieces featuring traditional Ru glaze characteristics

While ancient Ru Ware was created exclusively for the imperial court, modern Ru Porcelain allows more people to experience this historical art form through everyday objects.

A handmade Ru Porcelain teapot, for example, carries not only functional value but also a connection to centuries of Chinese ceramic culture.

The creation of modern Ru Porcelain requires careful attention to clay preparation, shaping, glazing, and firing. Learn more about the craftsmanship behind each piece in our article [How Is Ru Porcelain Made?].

The Historical Story Behind Ru Porcelain

The story of Ru Porcelain is closely connected with the artistic culture of the Northern Song Dynasty.

The Song Dynasty valued simplicity, balance, and harmony. Unlike the more decorative styles of later periods, Song aesthetics focused on natural beauty and subtle elegance.

According to tradition, Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty admired the peaceful color of the sky after rain and wished to create a porcelain glaze with the same tranquil beauty.

This inspiration became associated with the famous “sky blue” glaze of Ru Ware.

Although the original Ruyao existed for only a short period, its influence continued throughout Chinese ceramic history. Later generations of craftsmen studied and recreated the unique beauty of Ru Porcelain, allowing this tradition to continue into modern times.

 Ancient Song Ru Ware vs Modern Ru Porcelain

A common question is:

Is modern Ru Porcelain the same as Song Dynasty Ru Ware?

 The answer is: they share the same artistic heritage, but they are not identical.

Ancient Ru Ware represents an irreplaceable historical achievement. Modern Ru Porcelain represents the continuation of this artistic language through contemporary craftsmanship.

The goal of modern artisans is not simply to reproduce ancient objects, but to preserve the spirit of simplicity, elegance, and harmony that defined Song Dynasty aesthetics.

The Characteristics of Ru Porcelain

Although Ru Porcelain has evolved over time, several characteristics remain central to its identity.

Sky Blue Glaze

The most recognizable feature of Ru Porcelain is its delicate blue-green glaze.

 Often described as:

"the color of the sky after rain”

this subtle tone changes beautifully under different lighting conditions.

Jade-Like Surface

Traditional Ru Porcelain is admired for its smooth and gentle surface, creating a visual impression similar to polished jade.

Natural Crackle Patterns

Fine crackle lines naturally develop during the firing process.

Rather than being considered flaws, these patterns are appreciated as part of the unique character of each piece.

Quiet Song Dynasty Aesthetic

Perhaps the greatest beauty of Ru Porcelain lies in its simplicity.

Its balanced shapes, restrained decoration, and natural elegance reflect the Song Dynasty philosophy of appreciating subtle beauty.

Continuing the Tradition of Ru Porcelain Today

From imperial treasures of the Northern Song Dynasty to contemporary handmade creations, Ru Porcelain represents a continuous connection between history, craftsmanship, and artistic expression.

Understanding the difference between Ruyao, Ru Ware, and Ru Porcelain allows us to appreciate these works beyond their appearance — as objects carrying centuries of cultural memory.

At Origin Ru, we create handmade Ru Porcelain tea ware and objects inspired by the timeless elegance of Song Dynasty aesthetics, bringing this traditional ceramic art into modern living spaces.