After we went to the Vintage fair at Kelham Hall, we called in at Newark Antiques Centre, a former congregational church, but now, full to the brim with antiques and collectables. I wandered round and was drawn to some blue and white material, which I bought (of course). I was also drawn to a blue and white muffin dish, consisting of a plate and lid in the deepest cobalt blue with white blossom on it. I stood and looked at it for a while and then asked to look at it in greater detail. In retrospect, this was a mistake, because once I held it, I knew I would like to buy it. Anyway, I checked it over and looked for a mark - Wood and Sons, Prunus. I then talked myself right out of buying it! What would we do with it, where would we put it? I reluctantly put it back and talked to the lady at the counter who said she would have bought it. However, I bought the material and left the dish there.
Of course, the internet helped a lot with finding out about the pattern. It was probably made between 1890 and 1920, by Wood and Sons and the designer was Frederick Rhead. I discovered that it was a pattern mainly used for vases, dressing table items and not much was made as dinner services. My original thought was that I could look out for it and buy some plates to actually use.
Well, you know what it is like. I thought about it and thought about it and eventually, Chris said we could go back and I could get it (I think he just wanted me to stop going on about it!). I rang up and reserved it and we went back the next day. (I'm sure you knew that is what would happen, didn't you?!)
Here it is - I just love it and it make me smile when I go past it. At the moment, it is on the table with the seasonal tree, but whether that will be its home, I'm not sure.
I'm now wondering whether I can make a polymer clay flower cane based on this design...now there's yet another challenge!
Beautiful fabric - and dish!! xx
ReplyDeleteThanks, Amy. I was lucky with both my purchases. I just need to find the perfect thing to make with the material...
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
I think that, haveing held it, I would not have been able to let it go, it is such a tactile thing. the fabric is lovely too.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Toffeeapple. Actually holding it was the clincher for me and why I just had to go back and get it! I could have saved the petrol if I'd overridden my head and gone with my heart in the first place though...Ho hum! Still, I am delighted to own it now. I really like the fabric too and am waiting for the right project.
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
Oh, I can imagine you fell in love with that beautiful dish... That colour is so pretty an d so is the pattern, well done!! Fun to make something nice with those lovely fabrics... Love from Mirjam.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mirjam. I really am pleased we went back and I was able to buy the dish. I'm still not quite sure what the material will be used for, but there is no rush to use it.
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
Love them both. I would have weakened once I had held it in my hot little hands. Quickly.
ReplyDeleteThanks, EC. I may have been able to resist the dish if I hadn't held it, but once I did that, there was no escape! I am so pleased I was able to buy it in the end .
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
Both the fabric and the dish are lovely, you are a stronger soul than I am :-)
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
Thanks, Amalia. I thought I was being strong but ended up having to go back and get the dish two days later! I am so pleased I did though - I love it!
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
This is so interesting Ellie-when I saw the design I think I may have a little dressing table pot which belonged to my grandmother and the age and era would fit. The dish is gorgeous though. Blue and white is ever lovely, I am sure you will make a stunning polymer clay flower to celebrate the design. Hope you have a lovely Easter,
ReplyDeleteBest wishes
Alison xx
Thanks, Alison. I think dressing table items were made in this pattern. I haven't yet attempted a flower cane like this pattern - it's on my ever-expanding 'to do' list though!
DeleteHappy Easter to you too.
Best wishes
Ellie