Blue Willow
14 May 2011 - 08 July 2011
Blue Willow is very likely the world's most popular dinnerware pattern as it has been in production since the late eighteenth century. Although inspired by Chinese ceramics the Blue Willow pattern was developed by British commercial potteries to meet the huge demand for Chinese style wares. The story of the young lovers who are transformed into doves was created to specifically promote the pattern. Since then Blue Willow, in all its variations, has continued to enchant Westerners. This installation, from the collection of Susan Andrew features tableware that explores variation in terms age, colour and pattern together with commercially and hand produced table linen, such as embroidered doilies, tray cloths and tea cosies both, which feature elements of and co-ordinate with Blue Willow.
