“Kraak porcelain” was a type of export blue-and-white porcelains from Wanli to Chongzhen Era of the Ming dynasty (1573–1644). The word “Kraak” was a name of the Portuguese ship given by the Europeans during 16th to 17th century. The name “Kraak porcelain” was also given to the Chinese porcelains that came along with Portuguese ships for sales in Europe.

Trade began to boom as the maritime routes connected the East and the West in the 16th century. The Kraak porcelain was an important type of goods in the China-Western trade. Its unique designs and patterns were warmly welcomed in the European market and served as a material vehicle of Chinese culture. It is a strong proof of China-Europe trade and cultural exchange.

Fragments of Kraak porcelains were discovered at Rua Central, the ruin of St. Paul’s College, and many other places in Macao. It proves Macao to have been an important entrepôt for early East-West porcelain trade.