Style of blue-and-white decoration on maiolica in imitation of 15th-century Chinese wares. The term was first used by Cipriano Piccolpasso in the 16th century but the form of decoration itself, which proved to be quite popular, was introduced in the late 15th century in Italy as expensive Chinese porcelain began to be imported into Europe. Sometimes the term is used synonymously with "alla damaschina" which is better described as a different type of decoration.
