How do I identify eighteenth-century porcelain?

Eighteenth-century porcelain is generally identified by the weight of the paste, unglazed foot rims where the piece rested in the kiln, and hand-pencilled factory marks or painters' numerals underneath. Decoration from this era typically relies on hand-mixed enamel colours and underglaze blue, showing subtle irregularities that distinguish early studio production from later mass-manufactured items.

What is the difference between porcelain and bone china?

True porcelain is a hard-paste ceramic composed of kaolin and petuntse, fired at very high temperatures to create a dense, vitreous body that transmits light. Bone china incorporates animal bone ash into the clay mixture, producing a slightly warmer tone and a slightly softer paste. Both materials accept hand-painted enamel decoration and gilding equally well, though they originated from different manufacturing traditions in Europe and Asia.

How should I clean painted porcelain pieces?

Painted porcelain and gilded surfaces require gentle maintenance using only lukewarm water and a mild detergent when necessary. Harsh scrubbing or soaking must be avoided to protect delicate enamel work and gold leaf. After washing, pieces should be dried immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth rather than left to air dry, particularly if they feature metal mounts or older repairs.

Can I use antique decorative bowls for food?

Using antique painted bowls for serving food is generally discouraged because older glazes and enamel pigments can contain lead or other substances not rated for modern culinary use. Additionally, acidic foods can permanently etch or stain the delicate hand-painted surfaces and fragile overglaze decoration. These objects are best preserved for dry display or decorative use around the home, allowing the painted scenes to remain protected from daily wear.