I think many of us dread the possibility that we are more like our mothers than we would like. We may catch ourselves nag at our husbands like mom nagged at dad or maybe be that unbearable control freak. Although I don’t think that I’m quite there yet, there was something that I noticed that shows that my mom’s taste has rubbed off on me.
Below is my wedding china pattern, Crate and Barrel’s Camille 5 place setting. I love the modern pattern and the contrasting colors.
Here is a set that belongs to my mother. It is the Blue Danube pattern that has been produced in Japan since 1961.
If you take a closer look, not only is the color scheme similar, but the pattern is similar as well.
Notice the 3-leafed pattern in the Camille is like the 2-leafed pattern in the Blue Danube? The fan-shaped blossoms and vines are on both patterns too.
Upon further research, I found out that Blue Danube was inspired by designs from the Chinese Yuan Dynasty period (1260-1368 A.D.). The flowers depict the ancient Chinese symbols of good fortune and happiness. The original design has been in production for more than 200 years.
Turns out that the Blue Danube pattern is collectible. The back stamp helps us determine how old and how valuable the pieces are. Apparently, the pattern is going to be retired. I will be sure to take extra care of them.
It seems that my wedding china pattern may have been inspired by a traditional pattern of my family’s heritage. And after going through a wedding that followed some of the family traditions, I know that symbolism is a big part of important events to the Chinese. To discover that that I coincidentally chose a pattern that symbolizes prosperity and happiness for my wedding china is an added bonus! As for being like my mother, I think I’ll turn out OK….
Nesting On A Hill 