Monday, May 19, 2008

It started with a teapot...



....during a flea marketing excursion at Portobello Road in London, I saw this antique English Chintz teapot on a vendor's table. I swooned and had to have it even though at the time I didn't collect chintz or teapots. In fact, I've never chosen to have any pink rose prints. Even today my home decor is earth tones in the Vintageweave French Farmhouse style...no pink to be found.

But I was so drawn to this teapot in the English Rose pattern and eventually started feverishly collecting this pattern, along with June Roses. They are so delicate and beautiful, but perhaps what most drew this in to me is the history. Knowing that young girls and women would painstakingly affix mini bits of paper to the ceramic in such a way that the rose pattern was aligned perfectly (or sometimes not) on the dish.
Affix moistened paper, brush glue, fire in a kiln, repeat.


Fascinating creation. Popular to make in the 1920-1940's, years ago these were MEGA expensive, but the price has dropped to much more affordable prices in the last few years.

No matter, I bought them for the love of my eye, not for the investment of my wallet.




Be sure to check markings on the back to insure you have a vintage piece as MANY, MANY reproductions have flooded the market since 1990. Many books are available to assist you in learning what pattern will become your favorite.


I have an antique French white cupboard that houses these English floral patterns in a small corner of my home. It's the only pink I have inside my house and somehow when displayed in abundance it just works. Very dramatic statement.

I love taking them out and using these beauties when I host a tea or Sunday brunch.









2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh so beautiful-are any of these available for sale? I had no idea how these were created. Very interesting and informative as always.

Anonymous said...

kathy-you found me some teapots and now I'd love to add a toast holder or what ever you call it, as well as that pastry tiered beauty.
Tori