Plates

The India Companies were enterprises that managed trade between the European cities – in this case Spanish cites – and their colonies. The export of porcelain was done by these European maritime companies. The porcelain pieces that were not fully decorated were found in warehouses in Canton so that the initials or emblems of future owners could be added when custom-ordered. The designs combined western images inspired in gild along with Chinese decorative figures to satisfy European and American taste. An ornamental characteristic is the use of a gold border or edging known as a “spearhead” which found in this piece and floral motifs are defined on the base.