East Asian ceramics are sometimes marked. These marks can indicate the period of an emperor’s reign, the place or purpose of manufacture, an imperial hall name, a person’s name, a special event, or represent an auspicious meaning. Most marks are found on the base of the vessel, but may also be applied to the foot, body, or the rim. A selection of the most commonly used Chinese marks and symbols are provided on this page. Click here for more detailed information on the use of Chinese reign marks.