What is hard paste porcelain?

Hard paste porcelain, also known as true porcelain, is a type of high-quality ceramic made from a mixture of kaolin, feldspar, and quartz. It was first developed in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and later refined during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD). Hard paste porcelain is highly valued for its strength, translucency, and ability to hold intricate details in its design. It is fired at extremely high temperatures (up to 1,300°C) to produce a dense, non-porous body. Hard paste porcelain is traditionally associated with fine tableware, decorative objects, and sculptures. One of the most notable producers of hard paste porcelain was the Meissen porcelain factory in Germany, which was established in 1710.