What is an oriental porcelain platter used for?

These large ceramic pieces were historically created for grand presentation, dining display, and interior decoration within elite households. Today, collectors primarily utilise large chargers and platters as wall-mounted art or striking centrepieces on heavy furniture. The substantial diameter of these items allows the painted cobalt and enamel narratives to be fully appreciated from a distance. They bring historic depth and vibrant colour into both traditional and contemporary interior spaces.

How do I date a Chinese or Japanese charger?

Dating relies upon examining the characteristics of the porcelain body, the specific pigments used in the underglaze blue or enamel, and stylistic markers of dynasties and periods. Reign marks, when present, provide a direct indication of the ruling emperor under whom the piece was produced. Secondary additions, such as French Rococo ormolu mounts, also help establish the timeline of when an Asian porcelain plate was adapted for Western markets. Comparing the potting weight and foot-ring formation against known examples clarifies the era of manufacture.

What is the difference between Imari and blue and white?

Imari porcelain employs a vibrant tripartite colour scheme featuring underglaze cobalt blue, contrasting iron red, and abundant gold leaf accents. This creates a dense, brocaded visual effect across the surface of the plate or charger. In contrast, blue and white porcelain relies solely on cobalt oxide painted beneath a clear glaze before firing. This technique produces stark, elegant tonal contrasts favoured across successive Chinese dynasties.

Can these platters be hung on a wall safely?

Displaying large chargers on walls requires specialised, secure bracket hangers designed to distribute the weight evenly across the rim and base. It is essential to mount the hardware directly into wall studs rather than relying on standard plaster anchors. Regular inspection of the mounting wires and brackets ensures the porcelain remains secure over time. This method keeps heavy antique plates safe while transforming them into prominent vertical displays.