China or Bone China

I admit I collect China.

Coppied,

Many years ago it was fashionable to have a plate rail in the dining room that was about two feet from the ceiling all the way around the room. It gave way for conversation, added charm and warmth to the complete dining experience. It was a way to decorate that gave a special experience to those who entered the room. Depending on the stature of the home owner, the plate rail was a reflection of the taste and wealth of the residents. Many times it was a theme of great Early Blue & White China or a mixture of different color Transferware which was always associated with the aristocratic and more affluent of the times. Sometimes it may have been Historical China; other times it may have been Flow Blue China, Gaudy Dutch, Gaudy Welsh or Spongeware. On other occasions it may have been very fine examples of Early Hand Painted Porcelains from England or France. In the early days of plate collecting, the plate rail was generally a reflection of the more learned or well traveled person who wished to display proudly their prized china acquisitions through the course of their travels.