Summary

This saucer, which has been reconstructed from eight fragments which were excavated during one of the digs on the Commonwealth Block between 1988 and 2003. It is a Chinese export ware dish or saucer which probably would have come with a matching tea cup. Chinese export ware was made for Western tastes. It was manufactured in the early to mid 19th century.

Uncovering past food practices.
Of all the archaeological material uncovered in the Little Lon excavations, the remnants of eating and drinking are the most numerous. Broken plates, bowls, cups and cutlery were thrown into rubbish piles with smashed jars that once held jam and pickles, and jugs that held water or cordial. Shells from oysters, abalone and coconuts were tossed in with bones from mutton, beef, rabbit and pork. Pips and seeds from fruit and vegetables were also added to the piles. These objects offer clues to the food consumed by residents of Little Lon, and are important in the rediscovery of a people, place and time long vanished.

Physical Description

This saucer has been reconstructed from eight pieces, however, there are several pieces missing. It is decorated with a 'Nanking' design with a lattice outer border and a spearhead and dots inner border, which has been hand painted in blue under clear glaze.

Physical Description

8 fragments of white porcelain plate. Design is blue on white handpainted Chinese Temple design (possibly), with a clear glaze. No manufacturers marks. Handpainted, under tin glaze, porcelain. Chinese export ware bowl. Probably a saucer/dish, which would have come with a matching tea cup. Probable date is before 1850. Chinese export ware,made for Western taste. Rarely found on 'chinese' site Pattern: 'Nanking' design, lattice outer border, spearhead & dots inner.

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