Blues made from cobalt were first used widely for painted decoration in China during the 15th century. Much of the porcelain imported into Europe was decorated with blue designs, and after about 1650, when tea was introduced, the volume of blue and white 'chinaware' brought back from Canton was enormous. Imports from China declined in the 1780s, and owners of Chinese services found it difficult to obtain replacements or additions. To meet this need, British potters copied the hand-painted patterns using the technique of transfer-printed from engraved copper plates. Spode perfected this process, and his wares have never been surpassed. This small book is intended to help all who are interested in blue and white wares, whether collectors or not.