SIR MICHAEL BUTLER (1927-2013) started collecting in 1961, when 17th century Chinese porcelain was available in good quantities, was unfashionable and misunderstood. Half a century later, when his collection numbered over 850 pieces, the situation had completely reversed on all three counts. This was in no small measure thanks to Sir Michael himself, who tirelessly studied, exhibited, debated and encouraged research into his chosen period.
