Chinese Plate

Can you identify age and origin? Possible value.

Item:
Antique Chinese Porcelain Plate (Possibly Qing Dynasty or Republic Period)

Estimated Origin:
China (likely Jingdezhen region)

Estimated Date:
Late Qing Dynasty (c. 1850–1911) or Republic Period (1912–1949)

Visual and Stylistic Features:

• Design Elements:
  The plate features a blue-and-white motif with concentric swirl patterns (resembling stylized whirlpools or clouds) interspersed with darker brush-painted segments. The rim is scalloped, and the surface displays a fine crackle glazepattern, also known as Ge ware or craquelure—a technique with deep historical roots in Chinese ceramics, especially imitated from Song dynasty forms.
• Decoration Style:
  The plate’s swirl design may represent “auspicious cloud” (祥云) motifs, which symbolize good fortune and continuity in Chinese iconography. The abstract brushwork and the unmarked back suggest either a utilitarian export piece or a studio production during the late Qing or early Republic era.
• Craftsmanship:
  The brush technique and balance of cobalt blue tones are consistent with hand-decorated Chinese porcelain made for domestic use or export during the transition period from imperial to modern China. The crackled glaze and freeform motifs are distinctive of late 19th to early 20th-century pieces.

Condition:

• Visible Repairs: The plate has been broken and professionally repaired (likely with archival adhesive). This significantly affects monetary value but does not diminish historical interest.
• Surface: Displays age-appropriate wear, minor glaze imperfections, and visible craquelure—all consistent with antique porcelain.

Estimated Value (Fair Market Range):

• With repair: $80–$150 USD (decorative or collector value)
• If unrestored and undamaged: $300–$500 USD depending on market and provenance

Comparable Items:

• Late Qing Dynasty export wares or Republic Period studio ceramics featuring crackle glaze and underglaze blue decorations.
• Similar decorative techniques were used in Jingdezhen kilns, which remained the porcelain capital of China through these periods.

Recommendation:

For a more definitive appraisal and potential museum or auction house interest, consider reaching out to:

• Asia Art Appraisal Specialists (AAA Appraisals)
• Bonhams or Christie's Asian Ceramics Departments
• Local accredited appraisers through the International Society of Appraisers

They may perform thermoluminescence testing or glaze analysis to determine age with greater accuracy.