This Chinese plate with bats, peaches and pomegranates is about 9-1/4" in diameter, 1-3/4" high, with a slightly scalloped rim. The decoration symbolizes longevity, good fortune, etc. There are three stylized calligraphy characters on the front of the plate, which I have not been able to translate. On the back there is a mark in iron red, which matches the color of the five bats on the back. While I am not an expert, I believe that the mark on the back dates the plate to the last reign of Hongxian, 1915-16, possibly earlier. The condition is pretty good for an item that is about 100 years or more old. There is slight wear to the glaze in the center of the plate, including the bats, a sign of use and age. There are three hairline cracks that run about 1-3/4" from the rim toward the center, illustrated in the pictures. There is also a small rim chip about 1/8" wide, also illustrated. This is an attractive and decorative plate, and it is difficult to expect perfection in very old items.

Asian Antiques
Asian Porcelain & Pottery