How were these large plates used?

Large chargers and platters served as centrepieces for formal dining tables, holding meat, fruit, or poultry during grand meals. Many examples were also hung on walls or displayed on sideboards purely for decorative impact within a room.

How do I hang a heavy charger?

Heavy ceramic and porcelain chargers require sturdy adjustable brass wire hangers designed to distribute weight evenly across the rim. Ensure the wall fixing secures firmly into masonry or studwork to support the considerable mass of large platters safely.

How do I tell Japanese from English pieces?

Japanese pieces usually employ fine porcelain bodies with dense hand-painted enamel and cobalt underglaze compositions typical of Arita wares. English equivalents often utilise heavier ironstone or stoneware bodies stamped with maker marks from Staffordshire potteries.

How do I clean antique ceramics safely?

Dust these decorative platters gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent the accumulation of grit in surface crevices. Avoid submerging pieces with fragile overglaze enamel or gold leaf in water, opting instead for careful spot cleaning with a damp cloth.