How do I hang a heavy charger safely?

Large chargers require robust, spring-loaded brass wall hangers that distribute the weight evenly across the rim. Ensure the fixing is secured directly into wall studs or uses appropriate masonry plugs. Avoid wire fixings that rely on adhesive discs attached to the unglazed foot ring. Inspect the hanger periodically to ensure the tension remains secure.

Were these plates meant for daily dining?

These pieces were created primarily as decorative items for display in cabinets or mounted on walls. The inclusion of delicate gold leaf and overglaze enamels meant they were unsuited for regular use at the table. Many larger examples, such as chargers, lack the stable flat base required for practical dining service. Their purpose was purely visual celebration of craft and motif.

How do I distinguish Meiji pieces from earlier Edo ones?

Meiji period porcelain often exhibits a brighter, more commercially driven palette with heavier gilding developed for export markets. Edo examples tend to show slightly more restrained brushwork and iron red tones. Markings, where present, can also offer clues, though many export pieces left the potteries unsigned. Comparing the density of the porcelain and the style of the hand painting remains the most reliable guide.