The Chinese have been making fine porcelain wares for more than 3000 years. Archaeologists have found evidence of early kiln fired porcelain wares as early as 1000 BC. This tradition and artistic craft was carried on and perfected throughout the changing dynasties in China.

Today, porcelain wares from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) are recognised globally as one of the finest, most famous and naturally most valuable antique collectibles in the world. However, the blue and white pottery synonymous to Ming porcelain was in fact, first made during the early Tang dynasty, some 500 years before the Ming period. Nonetheless, it is believed by many collectors that it was only in the Ming dynasty when the blue and white vases achieved aesthetic perfection. Beautiful!

This creative printable worksheet set pays homage to this ancient handicraft of fine porcelain production and the iconic Ming vase.

Printable & Activity Objectives

💡
Age: 6 to 9 year olds, Activity Time: 1-2 hours, Items Needed: Colouring pencils

In this activity, your child will cover some basic research about the history of Chinese porcelain production. She/He will also be able to design their own in the printables below.

It will help your child or student:

  • Learn to appreciate the cultural significance and historic importance of fine Chinese porcelain to people of Chinese origin and also antique collectors.
  • Develop their artistic and design skills through the creation of their own unique Ming vase designs and artwork.

Let's start designing!


Classroom Resources

Simple steps to start:

  • Research and find out more about the history of Chinese porcelain. Here's a short video about the changing styles of Chinese porcelain over a period of 2000 years:

Here's another video of the history of Chinese ceramics and how it continues to thrive til today in the eastern Chinese city of Jingdezhen:

  • Get started on the printable worksheets!

Share this Teaching Resource


What's in the Printable Worksheet Pack

This printable pack consists of 2 printable design challenges. One worksheet consists of a Ming inspired vase with a traditional flower design for colouring. The other worksheet is an empty vase template for your child to create their own Ming inspired designs.

Click on the download link below to get started. Please note that this printable pack is free for subscribers and paid members.

Subscribe for free to download this printable

Sign up now to get access to printables for subscribers only.

Sign up now Already have an account? Sign in