How to Find Chinese Plates

Whether used for dining or decoration, Chinese plates impart class and elegance.

Chinese plates have a value that exceeds their practical usage in food service. They double as decorative items, esteemed by many who use them to create an Asian-inspired décor. You may see Chinese plates hanging on walls, perched inside china cabinets or resting atop wooden bookshelves. They are typically made of porcelain and they display designs that are meaningful and symbolic. Chinese plates capture the essence of Chinese culture. They bring a touch of elegance to any room.

Instructions

1. Shop for Chinese plates online. Countless online vendors sell porcelain plates with Chinese designs. Some sell them as works of art while others sell them as tableware. Most shops allow you to purchase them individually or in sets. AsianIdeas.com, MsLinskitchen.com and Pbase.com are three websites with inventories of Chinese plates.

2. Visit a store that sells antique porcelain items. Porcelain Chinese plates became popular centuries ago, and many antique shops stock and sell them as a product line. Locate antique shops that specialize in porcelain ware with an Asian theme.

3. Go to a thrift or consignment shop. Second-hand stores often handle large varieties of culturally inspired items. Frequent these shops on a continuous basis since they receive new merchandise regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you decide to shop for used plates, check for cracks and chips that can decrease the plate's aesthetic and monetary value.

References

• AsianIdeas.com: Decorative Plates
• Mrs. Lin's Kitchen: Chinese Or Japanese Plates
• Asian Antique Shop: Antique Chinese Plate
• Pbase.com: Porcelain From China, Japan and Istanbul