Blue and White

Chinese blue and white porcelain was a unique contribution to the history of ceramic technology, and from its development at the beginning of the 14th century, through its technical originality and artistic brilliance, it has continued to captivate and inspire the whole world. This copiously illustrated book traces the history and evolution of blue and white in China, first during the Yan dynasty (1271-1368), when the Mongols ruled not only China but all of Asia, creating an environment in which blue and white could travel swiftly as far as the Mediterranean. In the 15th century the Chinese became enamoured of their own product, while at the same time the Ming potters were susceptible to ideas and influences from the Islamic world, and during the colonial period of the Portuguese, Dutch and British expansion they responded to other commercial and aesthetic pressures. From the 16th century onwards, collecting became a passion and was a major influence on the concept of "chinoiserie". In our own times the combined efforts of scholars, collectors and archaeologists have illuminated how, why and when blue and white developed and has made such a major impact on world civilization.
Illustrations come from museums and private collections around the world, including some never before published.