How were ceramic wall plaques displayed?

Ceramic wall plaques and chargers were typically hung using integrated kiln holes in the footrim or specialised wire hangers designed to secure heavy earthenware bodies safely against interior walls. In many historic interiors, large chargers formed part of a decorative arrangement on plate rails or above mantelpieces. Smaller plaques and devotional pieces were often set directly into timber panelling or mounted within specialised frames to protect their edges from chipping during daily movement.

What is the difference between delft and faience?

Delft specifically refers to tin-glazed earthenware produced in the Netherlands, particularly around the city of Delft, famous for its imitation of Chinese blue and white porcelain. Faience is the broader continental European term for tin-glazed earthenware made in France, Spain, Germany, and other regions. While both share the same basic technique of an opaque white tin glaze painted with metallic oxides, regional styles reflect distinct local preferences in clay bodies, firing temperatures, and artistic motifs.

How can I identify eighteenth century pieces?

Eighteenth century pieces generally display heavier throwing rings on the reverse, subtle glaze imperfections from wood or coal fired kilns, and characteristic pigment pooling in the cobalt areas. The tin glaze on earlier examples often exhibits soft crazing and minor edge chipping that reveals the porous earthenware body beneath. Stylistic markers such as Dutch baroque patterns, Spanish catalana designs, or specific devotional iconography also help narrow down the production period when combined with physical examination.

Were these items meant for daily use?

Large chargers and decorative wall plaques were primarily manufactured for visual display to signal the status and taste of the owner. Their expansive painted surfaces made them susceptible to surface wear if utilised for serving food regularly. Smaller tiles and salesman's samples served different functional roles, ranging from architectural installation in commercial spaces like butcher shops to portable examples used by travelling representatives to demonstrate factory capabilities.