本文關注一類中國北朝隋代的顆粒紋裝飾瓷器，結合佛教與墓葬的相關材料，討論顆粒紋的源流與意涵，進而分析紋樣與器物之間的關係，探討這類瓷器的功能。議題包括：一、介紹三件顆粒紋裝飾的瓷器，分析其年代與產地；二、討論佛教藝術中的顆粒紋，梳理紋樣的源流；三、探索顆粒紋在佛教藝術中的意涵與功能；四、墓葬美術中的顆粒紋，及其內涵的變化；五、顆粒紋與瓷器的關係、顆粒紋瓷器的功能。論證顆粒紋為源自印度的一種聖樹果實，其經過絲綢之路傳播，又在佛教、墓葬藝術中轉化，最終成為瓷器上的一種特殊裝飾。其含義和功能與升天思想有一定關聯，同時也具有保衛、守護的意涵，是南北朝隋代多元文化交流的有趣例證。

This study focuses on a group of appliqué-decorated ceramics featuring the granule motif from the Northern Dynasties to the Sui period in China. Drawing on evidence from Buddhist and funerary contexts, it examines the origin and meanings of the granule pattern, analyzes the relationship between motif and vessel, and explores the function of these ceramics. The discussion proceeds in five parts: 1. Introduction of three representative examples of ceramics with granule decoration, including analysis of their dates and provenances; 2. Examination of the granule motif in Buddhist art and its stylistic origins; 3. Exploration of its symbolic meanings and functions within Buddhist visual culture; 4. Consideration of the motif in funerary art and its transformations in meaning; 5. Analysis of the relationship between the granule pattern and ceramic vessels, and the function of granule-decorated ceramics.

The study argues that the granule motif originated from the fruit of the sacred tree in India. Transmitted along the Silk Road, it was subsequently transformed within Buddhist and funerary art before ultimately becoming a distinctive decorative element on ceramics. Its meaning and function are associated with concepts of ascension and protection, serving as an illustrative example of the multicultural exchanges that flourished during the Northern Dynasties and Sui period.

顆粒紋; 聖樹果實; 保衛守護; 升天思想; 寶瓶紋

granule pattern; Fruit of the sacred tree; protection and guardianship; ascension concepts; precious-vase motif