Monochrome blue decoration became a typical feature of the Dutch tile beginning in the 17th century. This new fashion arose under the influence of Chinese porcelain, which had been much in demand in Holland following the capture of two Portuguese cargo ships on their return from the East in 1602 and 1604, and had subsequently been imported by the Dutch East India Company. The fanatical popularity which developed for blue and white ceramics led to the virtual abandonment of polychrome decoration on tiles from around 1625, at least for the urban Dutch market. Chinese-style decorative elements were also copied from the imported wares. The decoration of this tile derives from late-Ming Chinese porcelain (the dynasty ended in 1644).