Culture Insider: How to distinguish doucai, wucai, famille-rose and enamel porcelain

Updated: 2015-01-23 07:08

By Yu Xiaoou(Chinaculture.org)

A rare and fine enamel bowl [Photo/ artron.net]

The enamel wares were initially imported from Europe but in the sixth year of Emperor Yongzheng (1728 A.D), the Chinese succeeded in producing the enamels and even added additional colors. Plain porcelain vessels were ordered from the Imperial kiln. The porcelain surface which required enameling is unglazed in biscuit form. After the vessel is decorated with enamels, it is fired in the Palace workshop.

Enamel ceramic pieces during the Qing period are rare and magnificent because they were produced under the close scrutiny of the emperor himself.