A hard, compact, chalky-appearing and somewhat vitrified white paste, that is softer and more granular than Asian porcelains.

Covered with a semi-gloss, transparent lead or feldspathic glaze that is not completely fused with the paste, appearing as a thin line in cross section. Running of the glazes can occur on some of the earliest examples.

Decoration is most commonly underglaze hand painting, in a dark (sometimes almost navy) blue, as compared to the bright cobalt blue of Chinese porcelains. Blue transfer printed designs can also occur.

Motifs include chinoiserie, floral and naturalistic designs.