One of the most common designs in the early Ming Dynasty was the meandering lotus scroll, where each flower is multicoloured and decorated with a different colour for the outer petals. (Figs C2. and C3.) These bold designs are usually on bright turquoise grounds. The forms of the vessels could vary from incense burners, to bowls, vases, kundika and boxes and covers.
In the 16th century, new forms were developed such as Islamic inspired ewers and covers, with flattened pear-shaped bodies and tall outward turned spouts, rounded hu vases on a tall spreading feet, meiping (spring blossom) vases and large dishes, decorated with dragons. (C4.)