How do I clean a ceramic pot?

Dust these vessels gently with a soft dry cloth to protect fragile overglaze paints and gilding. Avoid submerging older earthenware or pieces with delicate enamel work in water. Harsh detergents and scrubbing brushes can permanently damage historic glazes. Professional conservation advice should be sought for valuable or unstable pieces.

Are these pots waterproof?

Many historic ceramic and porcelain pots hold water safely, particularly glazed porcelain and ironstone vessels. Earthenware and tin-glazed items, however, can remain porous over time. Liners are recommended if using antique jardinieres or cachepots for fresh plants. This prevents moisture from seeping into aged body fabrics.

How should I display my pot?

Position vessels away from direct sunlight to prevent the fading of delicate enamel pigments. Stable, flat surfaces prevent accidental tipping of lidded jars and tall vases. Consider pairing complementary forms like ginger jars and tobacco pots on open shelves. Proper lighting highlights the fine brushwork and glaze crackle.

How do I date a ceramic pot?

Examine the base for factory marks, maker signatures, or reign characters that pinpoint specific production eras. Stylistic clues such as colour palettes and glaze types also help narrow down the period. Craze patterns in the glaze and footring wear offer further physical evidence of age. Comparing pieces to dated reference examples provides the most accurate assessment.