How were these dishes used originally?

Many of these plates and platters served functional roles on wealthy European dining tables for serving meats, sweets, or tea. Others functioned purely as decorative display pieces in cabinets and formal reception rooms. Larger chargers and tureens catered to grand dinners, while smaller saucers and bowls formed part of social tea services during the Georgian era.

How do I care for antique porcelain?

Wash porcelain by hand in warm water using a mild, non-abrasive detergent, avoiding dishwashers entirely. Place a towel at the bottom of the sink to cushion the piece against hard impacts. Keep pieces away from sudden temperature changes and direct sunlight to protect delicate overglaze enamels and gold leaf details.

How do I identify a Qianlong period piece?

Look for the characteristic bright Famille Rose enamel colours, refined potting, and subject matter reflecting the eighteenth-century export trade. Many items from this era also feature specific reign marks or stylistic markers associated with the dynasty. Comparing the border designs and floral motifs with dated examples helps confirm the period of manufacture.

What is Amsterdam Bont decoration?

Amsterdam Bont refers to Chinese porcelain that arrived in Europe with unfinished or plain white surfaces and was subsequently painted in Dutch or European workshops. Artisans added extra enamel colours and gilt details before firing the pieces a second time at lower temperatures. This secondary decoration creates a distinct hybrid aesthetic bridging Asian porcelain bodies and European artistic tastes.