Banqueting On Blue Willow

This lovely old pattern with its blue and white colors  has been around the world for literally centuries.  It began in the 1700’s in China, pottery makers painting the familiar scene that has graced so many tables. Then it began being manufactured in England and finally here in the states.

There’s been a few different stories about the scene on the dishes but the main point is this: Long ago two  families each had a son and daughter that fell in love. They knew their families wouldn’t approve of their union so they eloped. The three fishermen on the bridge, a  weeping willow tree and two flying doves, a large temple all are on the scene.

Historically these dishes have been featured in countless movies and stories depicting the time frame and the need that people wanted  to make a civilized home with dishes and not just tin plates. William Randolph Hearst used this china of choice but with a gold rim in his estate, Hearst Castle, in San Simeon, California.

As a little girl I can remember seeing two of these Blue Willow plates hanging on a wall in our dining room.  I would stare at the art work and imagine sitting under that weeping willow or riding in that little boat.

As time went on and changes occurred in our home I lost track of those two plates and tried to find the Blue Willow dishes for my own.

Several years later my husband came home and said he found a set of dishes he thought I might like.  They were at a garage sale and I didn’t think much of it until he started taking them out of the box.  And there they were, my Blue Willow.  Needless to say we bought all they had and have been adding to the set ever since.

So I present to you a few ideas that I have put together for my memorable Blue Willow pattern; soothing, tranquil and comfortable.

Blue Willow Dishes with vintage pieces

Most of the time when I serve a meal on these dishes people look at the table and smile.  The colors and pattern seem to give a relaxing effect.  So I’ve added complimentary colors in the floral centerpiece and some solids and geometric designs with fabric to pull it all together. The vintage salad accessories also add some authentic nostalgia.

This tablescape will give guests opportunity for lots of conversation and memories of this meal with you to take home.