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Imagine a picturesque blue and white scene featuring a willow tree, a bridge, and two doves—you’re likely looking at a piece of Blue Willow china. This classic pattern has been popular for centuries, and many manufacturers still produce it. With its beautiful design and cultural significance, this type of china has a wide range of values. Here’s everything you need to know about the antique and modern takes on this classic.
History of the Fable
The Blue Willow pattern likely originated in England in the late 18th century. The exact date is unknown, but it is believed to have gained popularity around 1790. The design was inspired by a Chinese legend of two lovers separated by a river, with a willow tree and a bridge connecting them. The story goes that a wealthy merchant falls in love with a poor maiden. When their families forbid them from being together, the couple runs away and are transformed into doves that live happily ever after under a willow tree.
The blue and white color scheme is also derived from Chinese porcelain, and it became popular in Europe and America somewhat simultaneously. In Western cultures, people see the pattern as a symbol of true love and fidelity. They even used it as a wedding china pattern throughout the 19th century.
Quick Identification Tips
To identify blue willow, start by familiarizing yourself with the basic symbols from the pattern, including the most important aspects: the willow tree and a pair of doves. Here’s what each motif means:
- The Pavilion represents the wealthy family’s home, where the daughter is kept under watch.
- The Bridge usually shows three figures: the couple escaping and the father in pursuit.
- Doves flying above the scene symbolize the lovers reunited after death.
- The Willow Tree is a symbol of sorrow and love lost—placed near the house to anchor the tale.
- The Fence and Sailboat help set the scene but can vary slightly by maker.
Serious collectors should seek out pieces that are in good condition and have unique features or historical significance. Older pieces, particularly those made by well-known manufacturers like Spode and Johnson Brothers, are often more valuable and collectible.
Unfortunately, some sellers may try to pass off fake or reproduction Blue Willow china as the real thing. Look for identifying marks and do your research to ensure that you are buying genuine Blue Willow china.
Common Manufacturers
The blue willow pattern has been reproduced by many different potters over the years. When appraising this pattern, consider not only the age and condition but also the manufacturer.
Here are some other well-known manufacturers of Blue Willow (most of which are still in business in some capacity):
- Aynsley. Aynsley produced the pattern from the 19th century to the present day.
- Buffalo China. Buffalo China produced the pattern from the 20th century to the present day.
- Churchill China. Churchill China produced the pattern from the 20th century to the present day. They are known for a range of Blue Willow china with bold, colorful designs and contemporary shapes.
- Johnson Brothers. Another well-known manufacturer of willowware china, Johnson Brothers, produced the pattern from the 19th century to 2015.
- Royal Doulton. Royal Doulton is a historic manufacturer of blue willow china, producing the pattern from the 19th century to the present day.
- Spode. One of the most well-known manufacturers of blue willow china, Spode, produced the pattern from the late 18th century to the present day.
Value Guide
The value of Blue Willow china can range from a few dollars for a mass-produced piece in poor condition to several thousands of dollars for a rare, vintage piece by a well-known manufacturer in excellent condition. The value varies depending on the piece’s age, state, and rarity.
Older pieces, particularly those made in the 18th and 19th centuries by manufacturers like Spode and Johnson Brothers, can be worth thousands of dollars. A complete set of 18th-century willowware by Spode could be worth even more at auction.
For example, a pristine Blue Willow teacup from the early 19th century by Spode can fetch hundreds of dollars, while a mass-produced plate from the 1980s might only be worth a few dollars.
However, some newer pieces can be valuable. This is especially true if they are part of a complete set. For example, a limited edition set produced in the 21st century by Churchill China, with each piece hand-painted by a skilled artist, can be worth a significant amount to collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
While both flow blue and blue willow china are types of blue and white dishware, there are some critical differences between the two. Flow blue china is characterized by a soft, hazy blue color that appears to “flow” over the piece’s surface. This effect is created by a chemical reaction that occurs during the glazing process. The result is a somewhat uneven coloration.
Blue Willow china has a crisp, clear blue color and is decorated with a specific pattern. Unlike flow blue china, which is known for its soft, blurry color, willowware is known for its precise, detailed designs. Flow blue china and Blue Willow patterns can overlap in rare instances.
For those who love Blue Willow china, the annual conference for collectors is a must-attend event. The event is held in a different city each year since 1986.
The conference features a range of activities, including lectures and seminars on the history, value, and care of this collectible, as well as a large exhibit hall where collectors can buy, sell, and trade pieces from their collections. There are also social events, such as dinner parties and cocktail receptions, where collectors can meet and mingle.
