Beautiful Antique Hand Painted Porcelain Dish. China, XIX Century

This gorgeous porcelain plate is a very ancient piece, made in China in the 19th century and in quite good condition. The front side shows an even surface with no visible flaws and with bright and shiny colors. At the back we can see a hairline or tiny crack just by the edge, but this detail cannot be seen at the plates front side. Apart from this, the plate is in great condition in spite of being more than one hundred years old. It is still an authentic and decorative piece, made by hand and skillfully decorated. The plate that we can see in the images belongs to a ceramic type known as Canton porcelain. This name covers the pieces that were made in China between the 18th and the 20th centuries to be exported. The articles were molded and fired in Jingdenzhen and later they were decorated and enameled in Canton. Then, the ceramic pieces would sail to other countries from the city port. This lovely plate shows off the delicate decoration performed by the city artists and artisans, standing out for its fine stroke and soft colors. At the center of the plate we can see the pieces main scene: two richly-dressed ancient men who are playing a board game. The figures are surrounded by a gold circular frame that separates the scene from a white zone with kites, flowers, chests and other objects painted in bright colors. The plates edge is decorated with another fringe, in this case composed of deep-blue flowers and symmetrical grey shapes. The motives are well preserved the colors and the golden parts look shiny and good. The plates base shows the furnace mark, that is, a brownish surface produced by the heat generated in the furnace while the firing process. For its ancient age and great decorative power, this beautiful Chinese porcelain plate will stand out in any room or collection. Measurements: Diameter: 7.8 in / 20 cm.