During the late Ming period, Zhangzhou ceramics (popularly known as "Swatow wares") were exported in large quantities to Japan, Southeast Asia and Europe. While the Zhangzhou kilns are often associated with heavily-potted vessels that are decorated with brightly-coloured enamels, a large part of the output consisted of blue and white ceramics. This large dish with neatly-rendered motifs is a fine example of Zhangzhou blue and white porcelain. It features six lobed panels with floray sprays, which are reserved on a diaper ground, while a pheasant and two large peonies dominate the central medallion. The imagery of a pheasant and peonies can be seen as representing well-wishes for official rank, wealth and honour; as the pheasant was used as a motif on the insignia of civil officials while the peony signified good fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture.
