On the eve of the daughter's wedding to the Duke, the young accountant, disguised as a servant, slipped into the palace unnoticed. As the lovers escaped with the jewels, the alarm was raised. They ran over a bridge, chased by the Mandarin, whip in hand. They eventually escaped on the Duke's ship to the safety of a secluded island, where they lived happily for years. But one day, the Duke learned of their refuge. Hungry for revenge, he sent soldiers, who captured the lovers and put them to death. The gods, moved by their plight, transformed the lovers into a pair of doves (possibly a later addition to the tale, since the birds do not appear on the earliest willow pattern plates).
The Willow pattern plate is a distinctive and elaborate pattern used on ceramic kitchen/housewares. The Willow pattern was popular in 18th century England, e.g., porcelain designed by Thomas Minton around 1790 and has been in use for over 200 years. The design was inspired by the china England imported from China during the late 18th century. Other references give alternative origins, such as Thomas Turner of Caughley porcelain, with a design date of 1780. Willow refers to the pattern, a specific treatment, either applied transfer, or stamp, known as transferware. Background colour is always white, while foreground colour depends on the maker; blue the most common, followed by pink, green, and brown. Assortment, shape and dates of production vary.. |
You can find the Willow pattern still these days on so many items for sale The pattern seems to be just as popular today as it did over 200 years ago Here I am showing you just a few of the items you can find it on You can find embroidery squares with it on These cute Napkin rings shaped like a teapot and the lovely throw and pillows shown above |
Two birds flying high, A Chinese vessel, sailing by. A bridge with three men, sometimes four, A willow tree, hanging o'er. A Chinese temple, there it stands, Built upon the river sands. An apple tree, with apples on, A crooked fence to end my song. | I have an entire dinner service of this classic Willow Pattern |
I hope you enjoyed my little trip around the history and fable's of the Willow Pattern and
I hope it will inspire you to go and look for some Willow Pattern of your own to enjoy
Happy Hunting
Happy Days
Janet