How do I hang a heavy charger?

Heavy chargers and large bronze plates require robust wall fixings and specialised metal hangers that distribute the weight securely across the rim or base. Wire hangers must be checked for strength before mounting older ceramic or cast metal pieces on partition walls.

What is the difference between Imari and cloisonne?

Imari describes Japanese painted porcelain featuring distinct blue, red and gold palettes, whereas cloisonne involves fused enamel held within wire cells on a metal body. Both techniques produced decorative plates and chargers during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

How should I clean a lacquer plaque?

Lacquer panels require gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth to prevent micro-abrasions on the delicate red surface and mother of pearl inlay. Moisture and harsh cleaning agents must be avoided entirely to protect the aged wooden and lacquered substrates.

How can I tell the age of a carved wooden panel?

Age is judged by the tool marks left by hand-carving, the natural shrinkage and patina of the teak or timber, and the style of the depicted subject. Comparing the joinery and framing methods against known nineteenth-century production standards also helps confirm the period.