Hot Platter

Place of OriginChina

Date18th and early 19th century

DimensionsL with handles: 12 3/8 in.

MediumChinese Export Porcelain

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LineGift of the Winfield Foundation

Object number

1955.126

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 29

DescriptionFitzhugh border, Arms of U.S.

Label TextWith America becoming an independent nation in 1784, it was free to enter trade agreements with countries around the world. Its new relationship with China revived the Chinese export porcelain industry, which had been in decline in the face of European porcelain manufacture. Chinese manufactories now produced copious amounts of chinaware for the American table, adorned with patriotic scenes and symbols celebrating the new nation and its heroes. This platter was used for keeping food warm by filling the reservoir below the plate with hot water, poured into the opening in the left handle.