The Appeal of Blue and White China

What is it about blue and white china that tea lovers find so appealing? Is it the simple tranquility of a blue and white palette? Or does it go back to the late 1600s when the first porcelain cups and plates, decorated in blue and white, were imported to the Western world from China as ballast in tea ships? When we drink tea from blue and white teacups, do we feel a connection to our past? What is its timeless appeal?

At TeaTime, we don’t pretend to understand it. We just enjoy collecting and using blue and white china. We love to feature it in the pages of our magazine.

6 COMMENTS

  1. There aren’t many china patterns I don’t like, but there is always something special about blue and white china. I have two sets; Blue Garland by Haviland and a reproduction set that was on the Titanic originally made by Spode, and a partial set called Seville by Imperial China. All are gorgeous, but like Mrs. DePiano stated in her “Gracious Tables” book, I can always use another set of blue and white china (or anything else for that matter!), and am hoping that Mom’s Blue Willow will come my way someday!

    Thank you for a fabulous magazine! You have no idea how it brightens my day to receive the latest issue in my mailbox.

    Warmest wishes,
    Emily Mayer

  2. My everyday settings are Blue Nordic, originally by Meakin then by Johnson Brothers. Love it on a yellow or pink tablecloth. Have had the pattern for over 40 years and have never tried of it. Sorry they sold the pattern and it then went out of production. I stocked up however, so I’m set for life.

  3. I collect antique dinnerware in general, but I have mad love for blue and white dishes. The older, the better.
    Thanks for this article. I love your magazine. It makes me feel like I’m the last of a dying breed of women who loves to enetertain, collect and use beautiful china.

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