Collection: Portuguese Plates & Bowls

What makes Portuguese plates unique compared to other tableware?

Portuguese plates are products of a cultural heritage and showcase a kind of richness absent from mass-produced tableware. They often feature vibrant designs and hand-painted intricate motifs inspired by Portugal’s culture and landscapes.

Both in their rustic and modern incarnations, these pieces are known for their artisanal quality and durability and will bring elegance and authenticity to the table on everyday dining and special occasions alike.

How are traditional Portuguese plates made?

Traditional Portuguese plates are handcrafted using time-honoured techniques. Artisans shape the clay, fire it at high temperatures, and apply glazes to help make sure that the final piece will withstand the test of time. 

Many plates are painted by hand with classic motifs such as blue and white patterns or floral designs. A careful and detailed process ensures that each Portuguese plate is both a practical household object and a work of art.

Are Portuguese plates safe for everyday use and dishwashers?

Certainly: most Portuguese plates are designed with daily use in mind and can be safely washed in the dishwasher. Modern collections, in particular, are usually both dishwasher- and microwave-safe.

An important exception is hand painted Portuguese plates with delicate or metallic finishes, which we recommend washing by hand to prevent any harm.

What is the difference between traditional and modern Portuguese plates?

Traditional Portuguese plates often showcase ornate designs, bold colours, and culturally inspired patterns. Modern Portuguese plates, by contrast, favour clean lines, neutral tones, and a minimalist style more in line with contemporary homes.

Both reflect a long tradition of craftsmanship, but traditional plates emphasize history, while modern designs attend to contemporary aesthetics and lifestyle needs.

How can I tell if Portuguese plates are authentic?

Authentic Portuguese plates are typically handmade in Portugal and may feature a maker’s mark or stamp on the base. Also, slight variations in brushwork, colour, or shape are a natural feature of artisanal work and signal that the pieces are genuine.

Buy from trusted sellers - such as Portuguese Treasures - to ensure that your Portuguese plates are original, not mass-produced imitations.