In 1565, Spain opened trade with China and the Spice Islands (Moluccas) through her colony in the Philippines. For the next two and one-half centuries, the Manila galleons criss-crossed the Pacific—known as the Spanish Lake—bringing silks, porcelains, and spices to the Americas. At the Pacific port of Acapulco, the galleons’ cargo would be off-loaded and packed on donkeys for the long journey across Mexico to the port of Veracruz. There the goods were put back on ships to continue their journey to Spain.

During the trip across Mexico, many of the porcelains destined for Spain were waylaid and sold to the local bourgeoisie. These vessels served as models and inspiration for the Mexican mayólica potters who soon incorporated the exotic designs and motifs into their own ceramics.