Decorative Plates

I had been to an exhibition of decorative plates at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. These plates were used to decorate the rich citizens homes many years ago.
Let's see this interesting collection together. Most often a pattern or a picture or a drawing of cobalt was placed in the center of a plate. The story of the ancient centuries, the bible, or landscape was used for a drawing or pattern.

Transfer printed glaze green was introduced at the factory in Staffordshire, 1821. Later lead glazed earthenware were printed in other colors. Below is the amazing plate with a ceramic snake. What did someone feel when eating food on this plate?

Silvered decoration was a rarity on ceramics in 19 century. In Germany the Berlin factory was the first to decorate successfully with platinum. Unlike silver, platinum does not tarnish.

The bone china was painted with enamels at the factory of Derby, England. Mercury gilding gives a thinner and more even layer of gold than other techniques.

Here is the decorative technique on paperweights: opal and green glass, silvered and engraved glass. Bohemia 19 century.

Having finished looking at decorative plates, I had lunch at the museum restaurant. I liked the interior design. Each of the three dining rooms was beautiful. The windows decorated with stained glass, huge crystal chandeliers, ceiling, walls, mirrors, columns gave the hall solemnity. Beautiful dishes - plates, cups and teapots were on the tables.

Do you have any decorative plates at home? Do they remind you travel, adventures, or your friend visit?