This heavy, porcelain firing support is used help support ceramic ware and maintain its shape during firing in the kiln. The Dehua kilns in Fujian province were already active during the Yuan dynasty (1279-1368), when moulded vessels were made for export in large quantities. By the late Ming (17th century), these kilns were already famous for their ivory-white religious figurines. Export wares made for the European market became internationally famous and eventually provided the catalyst for the invention of true porcelain in Europe.
