VIGNETTES

A soft, dusty palette dominates my home. I am drawn to pinks, blues and greens, but only the palest shades live comfortably here. I enjoy creating small vignettes on tables, shelves and mantels that change with the seasons. At times, I surround myself with meaningful pieces or gathered treasures found at flea markets or vintage shops. But other times, I crave whatever is new, like a set of Strawberry Street ceramic bunny canisters. I will often refresh an arrangement of candles, flowers, teapots, books, or Rae Dunn pottery–so I can fall in love with the vignette all over again. I play and I tweak (does it need a doily? nah), coaxing each detail until it looks and feels like me. It is one way I celebrate life. Perhaps I will inspire you to create something beautiful out of the ordinary.

CHINTZWARE

The first time I saw Chintzware China, I was awestruck. Cathy DeWitt and I were mall browsing, and I spotted a beautiful card with a collection of colorful English Chintzware pottery on the front. Their tiny floral patterns dazzled me. I had to find out what it was and where I could get some. (I bought that card.) Weeks passed before I stumbled upon a cup and saucer in an antique store in Newhall, CA. I held up the teacup and asked, “Is this…?” And the proprietor replied, “Yes, that is pink Chintzware.” She knew because she collected it herself.

The hunt was on! It was the beginning of an obsession that would last for many years, culminating in a collection of close to 100 cups, saucers, teapots, salt & pepper shakers, mugs, and assorted platters and plates. Some of the rarest Chintzware finds were made by Royal Winton, but Shelley teacups and saucers were my favorite.

Featured Photo at Top: The pretty stack of floral plates with a hot cup of tea on top are some Chintzware “loners” I found in antique or vintage shops. I was never a Chintzware snob. I considered each piece, whether made in England or Japan, lovely and collectible. The hunt has taken me as far as the Portabella and Camden Town flea markets of London and as close by as Laguna Beach, CA. I once said that I would drink tea out of each cup some day (or definitely before the next Earthquake). I still might.