Beginning in the mid-thirteenth century, the kilns of Dehua, capital of the Fujian Province in southeast China, began producing brilliant white porcelain pieces, the likes of which had never been seen before. These pieces were originally crafted with only domestic markets in mind, for use as cooking and serving ware, or for decoration or religious purposes. But as Chinese artifacts made their way around the world, overland on the Silk Route and in the hull of the occasional trading vessel, a significant market for these porcelains blossomed in Europe, where they were prized for their refinement of form and finish. Written by one of the leading collectors in the field, BLANC DE CHINE: THE GREAT PORCELAIN OF CHINA weaves together the most engaging, authoritative story of this precious art ever told. Today, blanc de Chine are some of the most sought after collectibles in the world of Chinese art, their aesthetic appeal lying in their stark shapes and color, and their impossibly delicate, glasslike glaze. For the connoisseur, author Robert Blumenfield presents dazzling photographs and important research findings obtained from private collections and other blanc de Chine resources around the world. For the novice collector, Blumenfield details the differences between true blanc de Chine and other, less distinguished white wares. For the Asian art enthusiast, he provides a rich historical account of the evolution of the form, and the character and technical mastery that distinguish its finest pieces. A major contribution to the field , BLANC DE CHINE will be treasured by all who appreciate the breathtaking beauty and fascinating tradition of this exquisite art.