The Chinese annexation of Vietnam between 1407 and 1428 brought with it the introduction of blue-and-white technology from China. Underglaze cobalt blue quickly became the preferred ceramic type in Vietnam. Designs were often derived from Chinese prototypes, as evidenced by the lush and rhythmic peony scroll encircling the body of this jar and the lions and deer on the shoulder. Vietnamese ceramics also competed for markets throughout Asia, particularly during the period in the mid-15th century when official Chinese trade in ceramics was prohibited.