Ming dynasty Dehua porcelain bowl

A deep Chinese Dehua porcelain bowl with crane symbols.

Dehua porcelain, also known as Blanc de Chine, is a white porcelain made in Dehua, Fujian Province, mainly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is famous for its smooth, creamy white color and glossy finish. Renowned for intricate figurines, especially of Buddhist deities like Guanyin, Dehua porcelain is admired for its fine craftsmanship and delicate forms. It was also widely exported to Europe, where it gained popularity for its elegance and purity.

Ming Dynasty ceramics (1368–1644 CE) are famous for their vibrant blue-and-white porcelain, characterized by detailed cobalt blue designs under a clear glaze. This style reached new heights in craftsmanship and artistic complexity, often featuring floral, dragon, and phoenix motifs. The Ming era also saw the development of polychrome wares like wucai (five-color) and doucai (contrasting colors) ceramics, using multiple colors of overglaze enamels. Jingdezhen became the major porcelain production center, known for its fine-quality porcelain. Ming ceramics were highly sought after both domestically and abroad, symbolizing China's cultural and artistic dominance.