The object was glazed with yangcai (foreign enamels), an important technical innovation that marks the full bloom of ceramics during Yongzheng's reign. Its complicated structure, elaborate patterns and rich colors show the influence of European styles, such as Baroque art.

"The exhibition is a celebration of the grace embodied in ceramics made during Yongzheng's 13-year reign," Jin notes, "including those under the supervision of Tang Ying, a ceramic artist of repute who was committed to creating new colors, techniques, and styles for the emperor's atelier."

Yongzheng personally supervised the design of the wares to adorn palaces, evidenced by royal documents in which he gave instructions such as "the patterns must be more refined".

The emperor's artistic creativity was realized by the works of gifted ceramists such as Tang and Nian Xiyao, who oversaw ceramic making at imperial kilns.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn