Vase with Design of Phoenix among Peonies

Chinese porcelains were introduced into Europe in the 1300s, where they were highly valued as luxury items. As trade between Europe and Asia increased in the subsequent centuries, Chinese potters also made porcelains intended specifically for export to Europe, with shapes and designs often based on European models.

This ceramic is an example of blue-and-white porcelain, which comprised the majority of the porcelain trade between Europe and Asia in the 1600s and 1700s. This vase was produced for a domestic Chinese market.

In the 1600s, European potters also mimicked the aesthetics of Chinese blue-and-white ceramics.