What is a cobalt blue china dish used for?

These pieces function as serving vessels for meat, vegetables, and desserts, or as decorative cabinet plates displayed on walls and in display cases. Heavier ironstone pieces suit everyday dining tables, whilst delicate porcelain cabinet plates serve primarily decorative purposes.

How do I care for antique china?

Wash porcelain and ironstone by hand using mild detergent and warm water, avoiding abrasive scouring pads that scratch the glaze. Keep pieces with gold leaf or enamel decoration away from dishwashers and microwaves to preserve the metallic surfaces.

What is ironstone china?

Ironstone is a dense, durable type of earthenware developed in the nineteenth century as a robust alternative to imported Chinese porcelain. It provides a sturdy body well-suited to heavy meat platters, tureens, and footed comports subject to regular kitchen use.