The Qing dynasty, also known as the Qing Empire, was the last imperial dynasty of China, established in 1636 and ruling China from 1644 to 1912. It was preceded by the Ming dynasty and succeeded by the Republic of China. The Qing multi-cultural empire lasted almost three centuries and formed the territorial base for the modern Chinese state. It was also the fourth largest empire in world history. A mid-19th century blue and white porcelain tulip vase, having a tall stem above a bulbous base with reservoirs. Modelled like five adjoining Chinese baluster vases, this tulip vase is typically decorated with stylised foliage in blue and white glazes. The form is also known as a crocus vase. Such pieces were made for the Dutch market and adorned the grandest rooms in noble and wealthy merchant houses as vessels for rare and exotic flowers.