Antique Chinese Plates – History, Materials And Care Tips

Chinese people have always been exceptionally clever, smart and innovative, and these characteristics have made them leaders in the world of innovation and technology. Dating back thousands years ago, the crafty Chinese people have started writing milestones in the history, by coming out with exceptional breakthrough discoveries that are used and are highly appreciated even today.

And when it comes to great discoveries and antiques, what a great way to enrich your time-honored collection of antiques than with some genuine antique Chinese plates. It is a plain fact that Chinese culture and tradition are one of the oldest ones in the history of humanity. Thus, it is a privilege to posses some piece of the abundant Chinese tradition, and only true antique lovers know how pleasurable and valuable it is.

First Chinese plates origin from the Neolithic era and they were made out of natural materials, such as terracotta and black pottery. Hence, 2600 BC was the period when earliest models of Chinese terracotta plates were introduced to the world. Afterwards, another great and original discovery from the Chinese people followed, and that was the invention of porcelain. The history of porcelain making is linked to the Han Dynasty and ZhaoKai, who was also called “the master of porcelain making”. This is how porcelain-made objects became very popular and the very first porcelain Chinese plates were carved.

The European continent was introduced with the antique Chinese plates in the 18th century. The plates were hand-painted, made out of white and blue porcelain. The most admiring thing about antique Chinese plates is their unique design. Usually, they are designed (decorated) with authentic symbols and images from the time-honored history of the Chinese civilization. Apart from the high quality and durability, the décor was and it remains to be one of the main reasons why people from all over the world are crazy about antique Chinese plates. They can be also found made out of other materials, such as Quartz, Kaolin and Feldspar.

Maintenance and taking care of the precious antique Chinese plates is definitely a piece of cake. Proud owners only need a dry and soft brush to remove the dust and the dirt (if any), and a soft cloth to clean them after being used. Lukewarm (cool) water is preferable, for protecting the porcelain. Proper and regular cleaning ensures the value and may even improve it as is the case with any antique item.