Blue Willow China ~

Blue Willow is probably one of the most easily recognized china patterns in the world. I have a funny story regarding it. When I was a teenager, I collected Blue Willow because I loved the pretty blue and white pattern, and it came with a romantic fable attached to it (what teenage girl wouldn't love that?)  I had a few pieces that were quite old that were given to me by an elderly aunt. Mom allowed me to hang a shelf in our kitchen to display it ~ and, believe me, I was really proud of my Blue Willow! One evening after dinner, Dad accidentally bumped into the shelf, knocking all the pieces off, sending them flying down onto the tiled floor. I'll never forget the look on my Dad's face as we watched my antique Blue Willow breaking into a dozen pieces! He looked like a little boy who knew he was about to get into big trouble! The look on his face was so funny, I couldn't get upset, but burst out laughing!

So, when I recently ran across the following pieces of Blue Willow at a flea market, I couldn't pass them up!  I got this cup and saucer for $2.00. It's made by Homer Laughlin, the U.S. company most well-known for manufacturing Fiestaware. I had no idea that Homer Laughlin ever made Blue Willow.

I also got this sugar bowl for just $1.50. Unfortunately, the lid was broken, but I love the shape of it. Right now, I'm using it to hold potpourri.

Blue Willow was designed by Thomas Minton in the late 1700s. The legend attached to it is actually English in origin and has no links to China. It was, in fact, made up to promote sales of the pattern. I'm glad I didn't know that when I was a teenager!  For those interested in reading the romantic Blue Willow fable, click HERE.

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking this post to the following:

Tea Time Tuesday at Rose Chintz Cottage

Tuesday Tea for Two at The Plumed Pen

Tea Party Tuesday at Sweetology

A Return to Lovliness at A Delightsome Life
Tea Cup Thursday at Miss Spencer's Blog
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
and

Blue Monday at Smiling Sallys

Fiesta Fun ~

Today I'm sharing photos of a few pieces of my sister's collection of Fiesta dinnerware. One of the things we both love about Fiestaware (aside from the scrumptious colors!) is that it's made right here in the U.S.A.  Manufactured and distributed by the Homer Laughlin Company, located in Newell, West Virginia, Fiesta dinnerware dates to the 1930s. It's still manufactured today and collectors abound, of both the vintage pieces and new. My sister has a mix of both. I love her turquoise wall that makes the colors really pop!

According to the Smithsonian Institution Press, "Fiesta's appeal lies in its bright colors, modern design, and affordability."  The design is Art Deco (love!) and approximately 50 items are available in many different colors. Some colors are manufactured in limited runs, as other colors are added.  For more information, including a list of all the colors and the years they were in production, plus where to purchase Fiesta dinnerware, visit the Homer Laughlin Company website HERE.

Fiesta dinnerware plates photo courtesy: Wikipedia

Until next time, have a colorful Friday!

Linking this to Potpourri Friday on 2805!