This handsome antique Chinese carp or koi plate is a fine example of Chinese folk pottery. Made for everyday use, this plate has seen over 200 years of family dinners. Its exceptional graphic design has made these plates always popular with collectors. It comes from the late Qing Dynasty and was likely made about 1850.
The plate substantial porcelain features a white glaze with a light celadon tint. The vigorous brush work is centered on a blue carp with a reddish brown body. Since these are not fine dinnerware, but rather survivors from Chinese kitchen cabinets. They have imperfections in both potting and glaze. This example has some blemishes, but it is in good original condition.
Look closely at my pictures. You will see a potting flaw on the outside of the bowl, that touches the foot rim. A scratch that is glazed, so take a look, it is part of this plates history.
5.4 Diameter (foot rim).