How do I care for antique porcelain?

Wash these pieces gently by hand in warm water using mild soap, avoiding dishwashers and abrasive sponges entirely. Store them securely on flat surfaces or use coated plate hangers for display to protect the glazed and gilded rims.

Are these dishes safe for food?

Older ceramic pieces, particularly those from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, often feature lead-based glazes or vulnerable enamels that unsuitable for modern dining. Collector items serve best for display, cabinet exhibition, or dry presentation rather than active daily use with acidic foods.

How do I date an antique dish?

Examine the base for factory marks, painted ciphers, or impressed numbers that correspond to known operational periods of the kiln. Consider the weight of the ceramic body, the characteristics of the glaze pooling, and the painting style to narrow down the decade of production.

What is the difference between soft-paste and hard-paste?

Soft-paste porcelain contains glass and clay substitutes fired at moderate temperatures, resulting in a slightly softer body with a creamy translucent appearance. Hard-paste porcelain utilises true petuntse stone and kaolin fired at extreme heat, producing a denser, completely vitrified material that resists scratching.