Ming Dynasty Porcelain

Hello. I am smooth and cool to the touch, like a pretty pebble you find in a stream. My skin is shiny and white like a fluffy cloud, but I wear a beautiful dress of brilliant blue. Sometimes I have pictures of friendly dragons chasing pearls, or little fish swimming in happy circles. I am a piece of porcelain. I can be a special cup, a bowl for yummy soup, or a pretty vase for flowers. I was made a long, long time ago.

I was born in a faraway land called China. This was during a time called the Ming Dynasty, which started in the year 1368. Kind people with careful hands made me. They took special white earth and mixed it with water to make soft, squishy clay. Round and round I went on a spinning wheel. It was like a fun ride that helped shape me. Then, a painter used a tiny, soft brush. Swish, swish. They painted my blue pictures on my white skin. After I was all painted, I went into a very warm oven called a kiln. It was super hot. The heat made me super strong and gave me my happy shine.

The great emperor in his big, beautiful palace thought I was wonderful. He loved my bright colors. But my journey was just beginning. I got to go on a big wooden ship and sail across the wide, blue ocean. I traveled to meet new friends in different countries all over the world. Everyone who saw me loved my bright white and deep blue colors. Today, you can see me in a special place called a museum, where I am safe and sound. I love to watch children's eyes get big and sparkly when they see me. I show them that something made with love and care so long ago can still bring joy and beauty to the world today.