Blue and White Porcelain

Porcelain is a type of ceramic made from ingredients found in China (which is why porcelain is sometimes called china). Once Europeans encountered this fine ware, it was in great demand.

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), a blue and white porcelain emerged. The object itself still had a clear or translucent appearance, but the artisans painted a blue design prior to glazing and firing the ceramic. Typical designs consisted of floral patterns, landscapes, and dragons.