Early Ming blue and white porcelain (1368-1521) established the foundation for later ceramic innovation, showcasing refined cobalt underglaze techniques, bold designs, and diverse natural and symbolic motifs.
The Yongle Emperor (r. 1402-1424) was a significant patron of the arts, and his reign saw a flourishing of ceramic production, particularly at the imperial kilns in Jingdezhen. The emperor’s patronage was vital to the growth and development of the pottery industry at this time.