This undecorated white teacup, slightly chipped at the rim, was part of a sizable cargo of Chinese export ceramics and porcelain uncovered from a late 17th century shipwreck near Vung Tau, Vietnam. This cup is made in the Dehua kilns, which were well-known in the West for its so-called ‘blanc-de-chine’ porcelain. Porcelain wares and figurines from Dehua were exported to Europe in large quantities during the Qing dynasty. Sunk on the way to Batavia from China, the cargo on this ship would have eventually made it way to the European market where Chinese ceramics were popular and much valued. Although expensive, porcelain became the fashion among the class of new rich merchants and bourgeoisie in Europe who could afford to buy porcelain from far-away China, thus enhancing their status and at the same time, embellishing their tables, cabinets and interiors.
