In 1710, Germany's Meissen kiln succeeded in making, for the first time in Europe, hard-paste porcelain, a Western equivalent of China-ware from the East. It has been 300 years since the Meissen kiln was established under the patronage of then Elector of Saxony, Augustus the Strong.

To celebrate the anniversary, this exhibition covers the first half-century of Meissen's history, a period of time considered by many as the porcelain manufacturer's golden age. It was during this time that methods, techniques and patterns, which were later employed at many kilns across Europe, were developed.

The exhibition presents around 140 representative works and also shines a light on the relevance of European culture of that period; till July 3.

Hosomi Museum, (075) 752-5555, 6-3 Saisyoji-cho, Okazaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto; 7-min. walk from Higashiyama Station (Exit 2), Tozai Line. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ¥1,000. Closed Mon. www.emuseum.or.jp.