Set of nine boats; China, Ming dynasty, 1368-1644.

Set of nine pots; China, Ming dynasty, 1368-1644.
Glazed porcelain.
Measurements. 9.5 x 9 x 9 x 9 cm (larger); 6 x 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 cm (smaller).
Set of small porcelain vessels decorated in the classic blue and white style, made by applying cobalt oxide under a transparent glaze, although several of the jars have black on white ornamentation. These pieces stand out for the precision of their execution and the fineness of their ornamental motifs, which combine floral designs, birds and geometric patterns of great elegance. This type of miniature vessel was a common part of Asian maritime trade during the Ming period, being frequently found in shipwrecks, which testifies to their wide international circulation.