Were these plates used for dining?

Most large chargers and decorated plates were produced for display on walls or sideboards to impress guests. Smaller domestic examples saw occasional use at table, though their fragile tin glazes made them susceptible to chipping. Over time, collectors shifted these pieces entirely into decorative roles, preserving the delicate painted surfaces from the wear of daily cutlery.

How do I date an old plate?

Dating relies on examining the characteristics of the earthenware body, the tone of the tin glaze, and the style of the painted motifs. Seventeenth-century pieces often display heavier potting and Kraak-influenced designs, while eighteenth-century examples show lighter bodies and refined floral or Chinoiserie patterns. Twentieth-century items, such as Moorish Revival or regional French wares, typically reveal cleaner, more consistent ceramic bodies and modern glaze formulas upon close inspection.

What is the difference between delft and faience?

Delft specifically refers to tin-glazed earthenware produced in the Netherlands, particularly around the town of Delft, as well as the English imitations known as English delft. Faience is the broader continental term used for tin-glazed pottery made in France, Spain, and Italy. Both terms describe the same fundamental technique of applying a white tin glaze over an earthenware base before hand-painting the surface.

How should I hang a charger safely?

Hanging a large charger requires a specialist spring-loaded plate hanger with rubber or vinyl tips to protect the delicate edges of the earthenware. Ensure the wall fixing is secure and capable of supporting the full weight of the ceramic piece. Avoid wire-only loops that lack proper tension, as shifting humidity can cause unpadded metal to bite into the soft historic glaze.

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White Tin Glazed Plate

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A white tin glazed plate brings centuries of tin-glazed earthenware and faience into a room, offering collectors bold blue and white or polychrome painted surfaces.