Tray. China, 18th century.
Enamelled porcelain.
Measurements: 39 x 31 cm.
Oval-shaped tray with lobed profile. The background is decorated with flowers, which are reflected in the rim of the dish. Porcelain known for its chromaticism as 'cobalt blue' or 'blue on white' was highly appreciated in Europe from the time of its early importation. In fact, it was so much appreciated by other cultures such as Islam that it was very often works destined for this market that ended up influencing European ceramic production, which aspired to resemble as closely as possible this export production created in large quantities in China. It was not until around the middle of the 17th century that production began in this oriental country, blue and white porcelain being among the first to arrive directly in Europe in large quantities.