Antique Chinese Enamel Reproduction Ming Floral Plates (Set of 4)

We believe these are reproductions of early Ming (1368-1644) cloisonné enamelware as they feature light blue enamel as a base color and a vibrant yellow border of simple floral motifs as well as particularly even enamelwork and signs of age, all characteristics of early cloisonne, but they have CHINA on the bottom. The word CHINA was added to export goods with the introduction of USA import requirements. It was used 1891-1919.
 
We do not know if these are cloisonné enamel or Canton enamel but we do know they were likely created sometime between 1891 and 1919 due to the word CHINA on the base of the plates.
 
The main difference between cloisonné and Canton enamel is the technique used to apply the enamel. Cloisonné uses fine metal wires to create partitions that separate different colored enamels, while Canton enamel is painted freehand onto a metal surface.
 
We believe these were bought along with others in our collection by the Burr sisters in the 1920s or 1930s when they visited China, or by our grandmother who joined them in the mid 1930s. They all show signs of age, some more than others. Some have cracks or lines in the bowls. Almost all have minor discoloration around the rim. Several have maker’s stains on the underside of the bowls. These make them unacceptable to auction houses so we have priced them to find them a home.
 
Each plate H 1 1/2” x Diameter 8 1/4”
Weight: 11.22-11.78 oz (318-334g)
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.