Setting the scene...　Beginning in the Middle East, then to Europe, and finally to Japan.

We begin in the 13th century, the Arab sphere of influence extends through most of North Africa and into Spain. In attempt to conquer more territory in Europe the launch an attack on the mainland, spreading fear and terror amongst the people.

However, what the Arabs brought with them, changed Europe forever. They introduced chemistry, architecture, mathematics, astronomy, and with it came new technology and great knowledge. Amongst these, were the skills and technology for creating ceramics. As a result, all along the southern coast of Europe, the style and techniques of ceramic making have been influence by the Arabs.

Ceramic making technique from the Arabs：

A style known as cuerda seca which means "a dry string", uses a string soaked in oil to create a patterned border. The surface area is dyed indigo blue and then fired. The string that was earlier placed burns in the high temperatures and leaves a sunken pattern in contrast to the blue surface.