Journal
Notes on Canton porcelain
Identification, history, patterns, and care, tested and written by Simon Iong.
patterns motifs
Peony Symbolism in Chinese Porcelain: Flowers, Birds and Figures
The peony commonly symbolizes wealth and honor in Chinese art. Here's what the peonies, butterflies, birds, and figures on Rose Medallion and Chinese porcelain symbolize.
Jul 15, 2026
identify value
Rose Medallion Marks and Markings: How to Read Them
Many Rose Medallion pieces are unmarked or carry an apocryphal reign mark. Here's what the marks on Canton porcelain mean, and why they rarely prove age.
Jul 13, 2026
identify value
Rose Medallion Plates and Platters: A Collector's Guide
What to look for in antique Rose Medallion plates and platters (sizes, painting quality, value, antique vs reproduction), and how to commission a custom one.
Jul 13, 2026
blue and white
Chinese Blue and White Porcelain: A Short Collector's Guide
An introduction to Chinese blue and white porcelain (青花) from Jingdezhen: its history, patterns, and how it relates to Canton famille rose.
Jul 12, 2026
care display
How to Clean and Display Antique Rose Medallion
Safe ways to clean, use, and display antique Canton porcelain without damaging the gilding or enamels.
Jul 12, 2026
identify value
How to Identify Rose Medallion (Antique vs Reproduction)
Learn to tell antique Rose Medallion from later reproductions using the body, enamels, gilding, and wear, not the pattern alone.
Jul 12, 2026
patterns motifs
Rose Medallion vs Rose Canton vs Mandarin: What's the Difference?
Three related Canton famille-rose patterns, one confusing set of names. Here's how Rose Medallion, Rose Canton, and Mandarin differ.
Jul 12, 2026
history origin
What Is Rose Medallion Porcelain? A Beginner's Guide
Rose Medallion is hand-painted Canton export porcelain decorated with panels of figures, birds, and flowers in famille-rose enamels and gold. Here's what defines it.
Jul 12, 2026