The technique of frit-carving was popular in the 12th century and experienced a revival in the 17th century. This involved covering the entire vessel in a thick layer of frit (in this case, blue), carving through to the white composite body, and finally covering the ware in a transparent glaze.
The blue frit on this water pipe base (qalian), is reminiscent of the color on a type made in the kilns of Iznik, Ottoman Turkey. The serrated saz-shaped leaf forms also bear reference to Ottoman forms, while the lotus-flower leaves are traditionally Chinese. The metal attachments to this kalian are later additions, added in order to protect the vulnerable projecting segments.