The taste of the imperial court, particularly the emperors, profoundly influenced Qing porcelain design, setting standards for quality, style, and innovation, and reflecting the opulence and cultural sophistication of the era.
The reign of the Zhengde Emperor (r. 1505-1521) saw a notable change in the style and decorative elements of Ming ceramics. The emperor's personal tastes and preferences led to the development of pieces that were both unique and influential. This period of experimentation reflects a degree of personal influence from the emperor that is not often found in Chinese pottery.