Chinese Export Porcelain

Chinese export porcelain played an important role in the lives of 18th colonists. From shop keepers to gentlemen, widows to blacksmiths, 18th century people wanted to own Chinese porcelain dishes. Possessing even a small amount of it indicated wealth and status to friends and neighbors. Every teacup, every plate, embodied style and fashion as well as being evidence of the complex trade between China and the West. Each piece of delicate porcelain traveled thousands of miles before finding its way into the hands of the person who used it. This exhibit illustrates the wide variety of Chinese porcelain that was available in colonial America. Particular emphasis is placed on pieces with histories in Virginia and objects recovered from archaeological excavations.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website