A Kraakware Charger

An early 17th Century blue and white porcelain Kraakware charger.

(Hairline crack to one side)

Using a technique perfected during the Ming dynasty, Kraak porcelain was often painted using a glazed cobalt blue. Underglazing is a method of applying the pigment to the ceramic surface before it is completely enamelled thus making the decoration completely durable.

Divided into compartments or panels, each decorated with a distinct image, kraak porcelain’s surface was generally painted with various traditional Chinese motives, such as peonies and chrysanthemums, and classic Buddhist emblems.

There are a few hypothesis concerning the etymology of the name “kraak,” with common notion holding that it ties to the Carracks, the Portuguese ships originally used for transporting this fragile cargo.