Chinese inventions were heralded throughout antiquity, and for good reason. A number of things from China, such as the compass, were adopted and used by people all over the world. But one invention in particular, porcelain Chinese tea sets, is widely regarded as the best item to come out of this country.
After its was brought to Europe, Europeans feverishly tried to master this Chinese art. Chinese porcelain was famous for its rock-solid structure and unforgettable shine that had become a status symbol, collectors item, and a fixture on dinner tables across the world.
In the beginning, European kilns produced almost nothing that could compete with the Chinese tea sets. Artisans just couldn't figure out the process. What's more, there didnt seem to be any of the right clay anywhere. The formula was confusing, and the firing techniques were just beyond their skill level.
Then a young European alchemist came on the scene. Just 19 years old, Johann Bottger was given the impossible task of turning lead into gold for the kind of Poland. When he failed, he was jailed for a long time. But it was during this period that he started to study how to make porcelain.
Supported by a local Duke, this young boy found the material he needed to produce pure white porcelain. It was found on the highest of mountains, and the duke was able to give him a healthy supply.
With hard work and little bit of of luck, Johann discovered the right ratio of clay and other materials to make pure white porcelain. And he built a kiln that could reach temperatures that matched those of the Chinese kilns.
He made tiny test tiles that were the first porcelain items ever made in Europe. But that was all he could do.
Eventually the complete process of making true Chinese tea sets was solved by a Jesuit missionary. At almost same moment of Johann Bottger's tests, Pere d'Entrecolles, a Jesuit priest, made his way to Chinas Jingdezhen. This is where the worlds finest porcelain china tea sets were made. After almost a decade, he published two letters that detailed the process of making Jingdezhen porcelain. Before long, factories making porcelain were established across Europe.
Some say this would be a crime nowadays, but he got away with it!
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