Dish, 13th century, 1 3/16 x 5 3/4 in. (3.02 x 14.61 cm), Cizhou ware Stoneware with painted polychrome enamel design over a white slip and clear glaze., China, 13th century, One of the most important technical innovations of the Cizhou kilns was overglaze painted polychrome decor. Enamel overglaze painting, one of the most celebrated traditions of Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1664-1911) porcelain production, can be traced to Cizhou kilns of the late Song and Jin (1115-1234) periods. Designs in red, yellow, and green enamel are painted in glazed and pre-fired plain white pieces. They are then fired at a lower temperature. The majority of these early polychrome vessels were small, shallow bowls and dishes like this example.