Chinese Swatow Porcelain Plate – Zhangzhou Type, Late Ming Dynasty (ca. 1580–1620)

An authentic Chinese blue-and-white porcelain plate of the Swatow / Zhangzhou type, produced in southern China around 1600 during the late Ming dynasty. This type of porcelain is known for its spontaneous brushwork and was made primarily for the export market to Southeast Asia.

The plate is painted in cobalt blue under a transparent glaze, featuring a central stylized floral motif arranged radially from branching flower sprays. The painting is expressive and somewhat coarse— a characteristic feature of Swatow porcelain, which clearly distinguishes it from the more refined wares produced in Jingdezhen.

The rim is decorated with a linked or chain motif, while the reverse shows simple floral and insect motifs, freely painted without strict symmetry. These elements emphasize the artisan and functional nature of this export porcelain.

Origin & Dating

• Origin: Southern China (Fujian / Guangdong provinces)

• Production center: Zhangzhou kilns

• Period: Late Ming dynasty

• Date: ca. 1580–1620

Swatow porcelain was produced mainly for export to Southeast Asia (including present-day Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia), with only limited distribution within the Chinese domestic market.

Material & Technique

• Porcelain

• Freely painted cobalt-blue underglaze

• Transparent glaze

• Unglazed foot ring

• No imperial mark (typical of Swatow export ware)

Condition

• Light wear to the rim and surface

• No major breaks or visible restorations

Within the category of Swatow porcelain, this condition is acceptable and market-appropriate. Objects from this period are rarely found in completely pristine condition.

About House of History

At House of History, we are passionate about discovering and curating vintage and unique items for history lovers like you. We believe that a tangible piece of history brings the past to life—and that is where our passion lies. Our dedication is reflected in our annual visits to numerous markets, vintage shops, and auctions, both nationally and internationally, in search of that one special piece. Whether you are looking to expand your collection or add an extra touch of character to your interior, we strive to find the perfect item for you. Our selection is based on careful curation, love, and craftsmanship. Do you have a specific question? Let us know—we are happy to help. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns. We are always here for you.

Pricing and Shipping

At House of History, our prices always include shipping costs. We recommend keeping this in mind when comparing prices. All shipments are sent with track & trace for your peace of mind. Orders are dispatched within 1–2 business days. We use only reputable shipping companies and provide tracking for all shipments. Items valued over €200.00 are always shipped insured. Our products are professionally and carefully packed, and we have extensive experience with international shipping.

Notes

House of History specializes in vintage items, which means our products may show signs of use. We recommend carefully reviewing the accompanying photos and videos before making a purchase. If you have any questions about a product or would like additional photos, videos, or descriptions, please do not hesitate to contact us—we are always happy to assist. We prefer to preserve the original condition of our items. Some customers prefer a polished or restored appearance, while others appreciate a time-worn look (patina). For this reason, most of our items are offered unpolished and unrestored.