Blue and White Yi Tong Vase

Introduced to Europe in the 14th century, Chinese porcelains were regarded items of rarity and luxury—and today blue and whites, like this vase, are among the most popular and sought after by connoisseurs. This beautiful yi tong shaped vase was fired in a Southern Chinese kiln. The blue pigment is cobalt oxide, and the courtyard landscape depicted on the vase was hand painted.