Willow Ware

Have you heard the story behind the Willow Ware pattern? Willow ware is a (usually) blue and white pattern on refined earthenware ceramics which spans back to the 18th century, through the Victorian era, and on to today. Their are many variations on the story, but the gist of the story goes that there was a beautiful Chinese princess who lived in a big palace surrounded by willow trees. She fell in love with a lowly clerk against her father's wishes. When he demanded that she wed a wealthy suitor of his choosing, she and her lover sailed to an island with a little house on it. When her father and the wealthy suitor tracked them down, they burned the house down and the lovers died. However, their spirits rose from the ashes in the form of two birds.
All the elements of this story can be seen in the Willow pattern; the two birds, a sailing boat, a palace, figures chasing over a little bridge, and of course, willow trees. Willow ware is still as popular as ever today, and below are some great willow-inspired things from Etsy!

This is so creative! An upcycled organizer from Whichgoose made out of plates and saucers with spice jars in between. How great would this look on a vanity or dresser holding jewelry and knick-knacks! http://www.etsy.com/listing/43559801/blue-plate-special-upcycled-organizer


Everyone loves finding seaglass on the beach, but finding a piece of sea-worn ceramics is a very special find! MermaidsTearsJewelry has turned sea glass and beach pottery from the shores of Northern England into this beautiful necklace. http://www.etsy.com/listing/44647061/sea-glass-and-beach-pottery-pendant

Willow ware inspired gift tags from CatnipStudioToo! They are so beautiful and true to the pattern, feels like you could actually pick up the teacup and take a sip!http://www.etsy.com/listing/44620954/willow-ware-gift-tags-blue-white-teacup


Here is a great article about Willow Ware if you'd like some more info:
http://www.worldcollectorsnet.com/magazine/issue32/iss32p5.html