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Ming Export Porcelain

Type Object Region China Time 1400–1644

Ming export porcelain, centered on Jingdezhen kilns, was shipped via official and private channels to Southeast Asia, Japan, West Asia, and even Euro…

Timeline

  1. 1403–1435Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln Works · JiangxiDuring the Yongle and Xuande periods, imperial-kiln blue-and-white porcelain reached a peak of quality and entered the Southeast Asian and Indian Ocean trade circles through tribute and smuggling channels, establishing the basic routes and aesthetic standards for Ming porcelain exports.
  2. 1531–1540Fujian coastal transshipment ports · FujianDuring the Jiajing reign, products of Jingdezhen private kilns and some imperial kilns were shipped to Japan and Southeast Asia via Fujian and Guangdong private merchants and Ryukyu intermediaries; archaeological shipwrecks and overseas hoards show that blue-and-white and wucai wares circulated in large quantities in regional markets at this time.
  3. 1573–1620Yuegang (Zhangzhou) · ZhangzhouAfter the Longqing opening of the seas, Yuegang became a legal port for private foreign trade; the quantity and variety of export porcelain increased markedly, and it further entered the European market, giving rise to export-specific forms such as 'kraak porcelain.'

Sources