Roxanne D'silva
Goa is a mélange of many cultures. And, being a part of the Portuguese empire for centuries, many global items found their way into the state over the years.
In many Goan homes, today, you will find pretty blue and white crockery known as 'Macau crockery'.
‘Blue and white pottery’ covers a wide range of porcelain, which is decorated with a blue pigment, generally cobalt oxide.
The designs were generally done by hand in the olden days, while they are done using a stencil in modern times.
Blue and white pottery was first famous in China in the 14th century. It later inspired imitation ceramics in the Middle East, Japan and Europe.
Thanks to trade relations during the Portuguese rule, Goa started importing crockery from Macau, and it was soon found in the homes of elite Goans.
This style of crockery is no longer used in Goa, but remains a part of the culture of the land.
Macao crockery includes a whole range of pieces required for high tea, fine dining and more, including delicate blue and white teapots, dinner sets, cups, saucers, cake platters, serving dishes, plates etc.
While many people use it to serve food, others mount it on walls, or keep the crockery as show pieces.