Chinese ceramics, export ware

Chinese export porcelain refers to porcelain made in China specifically for export to other countries, beginning in the 16th century and continuing through the 19th century. The Chinese had been producing high-quality porcelain for centuries before this, but it was primarily for domestic use and the imperial court. With the opening of trade with the West, there was a growing demand for Chinese porcelain in Europe and the Americas.

During the reign of the Kangxi Emperor (1662-1722) in the Qing Dynasty, the Chinese government began to actively encourage the export of porcelain. Porcelain production centers were established in the city of Jingdezhen in southern China, which became known as the "porcelain capital" of China.

Chinese export porcelain was highly prized for its fine quality and intricate designs, and was often decorated with Western-style patterns and motifs such as landscapes, portraits, and armorial designs. The porcelain was shipped more... to Europe, the Americas, and other parts of Asia, and was used in a variety of ways, including for tableware, decorative objects, and dolls.

In the 19th century, the Chinese export porcelain industry faced increasing competition from European porcelain manufacturers, and eventually fell into decline. less...