Ceramics have been produced in China for a very long time. A. The Chinese produced earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain pottery and they used their ceramics for a variety of utilitarian, architectural, and ceremonial purposes. B. The shape and decoration of ceramics produced for religious use in China were influenced by Chinese ceramics produced for export. C. As a result of trade relations, Chinese ceramic production changed and Chinese influenced the ceramics production of other countries. D. Chinese burial ceramics have the longest and most varied history of production and were frequently decorated with written texts that help scholars date them. E. Before China had contact with the West, the meaning of various designs used to decorate Chinese ceramics was well understood. F. Ceramics made in imperial factories were used in both religious and non-religious contexts.