In the early 14th century, China was under Mongol rule. But rebellion was in the air & this led to the formation of various secret societies. Among them were the Red Turbans, & one of their leaders was a certain Chu Yuan-chang. He was a monk, but a monk with a serious power complex. So much so, that in 1356 he seized the city of Nanking. Twelve years later he drove the Mongols from Peking, became the emperor & the Ming era began. Lasting for more than 250 years, the Ming Dynasty saw a flowering of the arts & crafts
- including greatly prized Ming porcelain. This finest of fine china was the inspiration for our elegant globe-shaped lamp... particularly appropriate, as the word ' Ming' means brightness.