Bowl
Qing (Ching) Dynasty,
Kangxi (1662-1722 AD)
Porcelain, cobalt, clear glaze

By the 14th century China had made contact with the Middle East, where Chinese porcelain was highly prized for its superior strength and quality.

The Chinese went on to perfect blue and white porcelain during the reign of Kangxi, refining it to its highest level. Because cobalt was applied directly to the unfired clay the painter had no room for error, and so the quality of brushwork became extremely important.

Note the uniformity of the design and incredible delicacy of the grass and leaves painted on this bowl.