How were large ceramic wall plates hung historically?

Historically, large plates were often displayed on sideboards or dressers rather than hung directly on walls. When wall display was desired, specialised wire hangers or leather straps were fitted securely around the rim to support the substantial weight. Modern collectors continue to use coated wire display springs, ensuring the tension holds the heavy ceramic body firmly without damaging the historical glaze or foot rim.

What is the difference between a charger and a plate?

A charger is substantially larger than a standard dining plate, usually measuring well over thirty centimetres in diameter. Because of this generous scale, makers treated the surface as a pictorial canvas rather than functional tableware. Plates of this magnitude were designed to command visual attention from a distance, making them natural centrepieces for wall mounting or formal sideboard presentation.

Can these plates support daily use?

These large decorative pieces are intended exclusively for visual display and collection. The fragile nature of historical glazes, combined with the stress placed on wide rims, makes them unsuitable for serving food or routine handling. Preserving the integrity of the surface decoration requires keeping the plate safely mounted on a wall or secured on a sturdy stable display stand.