Jar with lid with motif of flowers and birds

Painting in overglaze non-transparent and semi-transparent enamels is characteristic of famille rose porcelains. The typical pink hue was achieved from colloid gold creating a wide range of shades, from light pink to dark red. This porcelain decorating technique reached China from Europe in the early 18th century. Famille rose porcelain is usually divided into two types: falangcai in which enamels are applied onto a colourful (often dark) background, and fencai, when enamel is applied onto a white background.