A beautiful, exquisitely decorated plate in a light cobalt blue, made for the Japanese market at the end of the Ming dynasty, during the transitional period (1620-1640). While various designs were produced for Chinese export to different markets, in my opinion, those for Japanese export are the most interesting. Each part of the plate has a symbolism that was not interpreted in Europe but was in countries like Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and China itself. Although it is true that at the end of the Ming dynasty there was a period of great political, economic, and social change, the Chinese continued to produce porcelain for export, a period known as the transitional period. The pieces, mostly made in blue and white, are of high quality. The pieces for the Japanese market have different designs, qualities, shapes, and representations. These pieces often have natural or intentional imperfections, since in the Japanese culture of wabi-sabi, related to the tea ceremony, beauty was sought in imperfections. If you are an art collector, you will see that no piece you own or acquire is perfect; they all have imperfections, some in the designs, others in the state of preservation. We should try to appreciate the whole. This particular piece is interesting because of the representation of a heron, which signifies longevity and wisdom; it is a Taoist symbol. The pine tree signifies resistance, perseverance, and longevity, and the butterfly symbolizes love and longevity. In conclusion, this is a long-lived plate that represents longevity. The state of preservation is perfect; it has no restorations. Only on the right side are mushikui (small openings), which are either natural or intentionally made for the tea ceremony. Mushikui are common during this period, also found on plates exported from Europe, but they are only valued by the Japanese. This piece comes from my personal collection and is guaranteed to be from the period. It originates from a private European collection. It will be shipped very well protected in a quality box with quality materials. Once the winning bidder pays for the auction, I will send them the product information via message.