It is weekend, and haven't we all deserved a very large cup of tea or coffee? That's what breakfast cups were invented for: extra large tea or coffee cups. And no, it's not just IKEA that came with this; they've always been around! These three stunning breakfast cups were made in China in the late 19th Century for export to the West. Interestingly they were made in the very English "London" shape, which wasn't made in England anymore at that time. This is Canton porcelain, wh

Last week's little pink plates flew away quickly, and today I have a very different set of plates: a full dessert service from about 1825. This is a complete service I have had my eyes on for several years... and I am thrilled that I recently had the opportunity to add it to my collection. It was made by Ridgway and it is in the very popular cobalt blue, cream and gilt style with stunning hand painted flower bouquets. Every piece has a unique bouquet, painted with great skill

Just before the pandemic hit I made a trip to Scotland, and I absolutely loved it: the water, the wind, the beautiful light of the purple rain-filled skies with the sun peeking through the clouds, and the very friendly people. I would have loved to explore more this year, but there is no travel right now! So today, let's take a porcelain journey up to Glasgow. This set of 6 little plates was made by Bell in Glasgow in about 1860, and they have wonderful hand painted Scottish

Happy Saturday! In a world in turmoil and difficulty, let's focus on some beauty - as beauty always gives us strength and that can only help in these chaotic times. Today I am showing another beautiful Asian-inspired item: a little coffee cup and saucer made by Worcester in about 1770. When I say "made by Worcester" that is relative; this cup and saucer were potted by the Worcester Porcelain Company and then painted in the decoration studio of James Giles, an incredibly talen