ancient moon pavilion ware

Chinese pottery

Also known as: ku yüeh hsüan ware

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

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The term "ancient moon pavilion ware" (guyuexuan) refers to a type of Chinese pottery that emerged in the early 16th century. This ware is characterized by an attempt to imitate European overglaze painting techniques, where colors partially sink into soft porcelain glazes. These pieces sometimes feature European subjects, such as Watteau shepherdesses, but also incorporate Chinese motifs. This style is part of the broader history of Chinese pottery, which has a profound influence on later European ceramics.12

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pottery
European influence and the export trade
…be seen in the “ancient moon pavilion” (guyuexuan) wares. These will sometimes have a European subject, for example, a Watteau shepherdess, but Chinese subjects were also used.
Read More
…be seen in the “ancient moon pavilion” (guyuexuan) wares. These will sometimes have a European subject, for example, a Watteau shepherdess, but Chinese subjects were also used.
Read More