Ming Blue-and-White Porcelain Firing Technique

Timeline

1. 1368–1402Jingdezhen · Jiangxi ProvinceAfter founding the dynasty, the Hongwu Emperor inherited Yuan blue-and-white techniques; the Jingdezhen imperial kiln system was formally established and cobalt oxide coloring technology matured, laying the foundation for the Ming blue-and-white system.
2. 1403–1435Jingdezhen · Jiangxi ProvinceDuring the Yongle and Xuande reigns, Sumaliqing cobalt was used to produce richly colored, naturally diffusing blue-and-white effects, later regarded by posterity as the peak technical standard of blue-and-white porcelain; many fine pieces circulated as diplomatic gifts and trade goods.
3. 1450–1464Jingdezhen · Jiangxi ProvinceDuring the Jingtai and Tianshun reigns, imperial kiln production scale contracted somewhat, but folk-kiln blue-and-white techniques continued to develop, with further accumulation of knowledge in cobalt proportions and kiln temperature control, laying the groundwork for later innovations such as Chenghua doucai.