Porcelain objects decorated in the Imari style, such as this teapot, were amongst the many Chinese export wares that were brought to Europe at the end of the 17th century. After the fall of the Ming dynasty in 1644, the porcelain industry in China went into decline and traders turned to the Arita potters in Japan for the export wares that they required. The palette that emerged, characterised by underglaze blue, overglaze red and gilding, was known as Imari, originating from the name of the Japanese port from where these wares were shipped to Europe. The Imari style was soon copied by Chinese potters. The shape of this lobed teapot and the lotus and vine decoration are typical features of Chinese Imari export ware.
