How were these platters originally used?

These items served functional roles in wealthy households for carrying drinks or food, as well as decorative purposes on side tables. Larger plaques and chargers were frequently displayed vertically on walls to showcase intricate painted scenes and inlaid mother-of-pearl.

How do I care for a lacquer surface?

Keep these pieces away from direct sunlight and damp environments to prevent the lacquer and papier-mâché from degrading over time. Dust them gently with a dry, soft cloth and avoid chemical cleaning products that can strip the historic varnish.

How do I tell Regency pieces apart?

Regency items often feature deep papier-mâché construction with specific japanned finishes and restrained classical or landscape painting. Working out the date relies on examining the weight of the papier-mâché and the style of the hand-painted borders.

What distinguishes Japanese export pieces?

Japanese export items from the Meiji period utilise distinct iconography, such as phoenix motifs, alongside meticulous lacquer techniques. These works frequently incorporate tactile elements like cinnabar lacquer and intricate metallic dust dusting known as makie.