Since ancient times, mankind has been familiar with the art of pottery. However, the first real porcelain was made only in the 3rd century BC in China. For almost 1,000 years, Chinese craftsmen have kept his recipe a closely guarded secret. Europe was crazy about expensive porcelain products from China. It was only in the 18th century that a breakthrough was made — ceramics began to be produced in Dresden. A few years later, there were more porcelain factories. Staffordshire became the center of ceramic production. Local craftsmen have made such progress that to this day all the secrets of their skill have still not been solved.