How do I hang a heavy charger safely?

Large earthenware platters require specialised spring-loaded wall hangers that distribute weight evenly across the rim. Ensure the fixing secures directly into wall studs or masonry rather than plaster alone. Avoid wire solutions that rely on a single point of pressure against the foot ring, as centuries-old ceramic can weaken under constant asymmetric strain.

Were these chargers used for food?

Many large platters served as ceremonial meat dishes or communal serving vessels on dining tables during the Georgian period. Over time, their decorative impact shifted them toward wall display and cabinet storage. Tin-glazed surfaces remain porous if crazed, meaning modern culinary use is generally discouraged in favour of preservation.

Can I clean these antique dishes with water?

Gentle dusting with a dry microfibre cloth suits most stable surfaces best. If washing is necessary, use tepid water without submerging the piece entirely, avoiding modern chemical detergents. Soaking can penetrate old glaze fractures and destabilise historic repairs, so moisture should be kept to an absolute minimum.