What Is KPM and Korean Porcelain?

Porcelain History

• Porcelain manufacture originated in China in the seventh century. Potters discovered that if they mixed fine, white kaolin clay with petuntse, a glassy mineral, and fired it at high temperatures, the result would be a single, unified glassy product. This vitreous nature gives porcelain -- or china -- its characteristic ring and translucence. Porcelain production spread throughout Asia in the following centuries, but the secret of its manufacture was kept from Europe until 1710, when a factory in Meissen, Germany, discovered it and produced the first European true porcelain.

KPM

• Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur -- Royal Porcelain Factory -- was founded in 1763, when Frederick the Great of Prussia purchased and renamed an early porcelain factory. Its new name -- now generally known as KPM -- reflected his joint roles as owner and greatest client. KPM is renowned for the quality of its hand-painting. Porcelain dinnerware and large show pieces were decorated with highly detailed, realistic renderings. KPM plaques featuring historical scenes and beautiful women are highly sought after and often sell for many thousands of dollars. KPM continues its work to this day.

Korean Porcelain

• Porcelain manufacture was introduced to Korea from China around the 10th century. A large peninsula with a big ceramics industry, Korea produced a diverse range of porcelain. Korean porcelain can be rough and utilitarian, or extremely refined. Green celadon wares featuring skillfully painted flying storks and carved or incised designs are among Korea's most famous porcelain. Korean imitations of blue and white Ming Chinese pieces are prized today. A diverse ceramics industry continues on the peninsula.

Buying Wares

• You'll find KPM in quality antique shops and antique shows. You can often find them at auction houses and online auctions. KPM is widely copied, so purchase expensive pieces only from a reputable dealer who guarantees the authenticity of his items. Look for Korean wares in shops and at shows and auctions. Not as widely available in the United States as other ceramics, Korean examples can be still be found at reasonable prices. Whether you're buying KPM or Korean, always look for pieces that are free of chips, cracks, hairlines and excessive wear, as value depends on condition.