This type of dish is known as Kraak ware, which was mostly decorated in blue and white with motifs divided into panels. This large dish features a central standard motif of birds, butterflies and flowers. The designs on the foliated rim consist of panels with auspicious symbols alternating with flowers.In Europe, this large dish would have served as a receptacle for water while in West Asia it would have been a dish used for communal dining. Kraak porcelain was extremely popular in Europe as it was versatile in combining Chinese and non-Chinese motifs and was available is different forms. Even when production in China decreased around the mid 17th century, its popularity never waned. Imitations continued to be made in Japan, England and other parts of the world.
