It’s that time of year. I’m thinking of Easter and how I want to decorate my table this year. Usually I add color with dishes, but this time I’m using my Haviland dishes with very pastel colors, so the color is coming from my tulips, napkins and tablecloth.
In fact, the tablecloth isn’t a tablecloth at all, but a Turkish towel. You can see the details on my dishes below.
David Haviland was an American who owned a china shop in New York City. He admired the fine craftsmanship of dishes made in Limoges, France. So in 1840, he formed a partnership with a manufacturer in Limoges to oversee production of china he would then sell to Americans. These dishes are Haviland, and based on the pattern, I am guessing they are from the turn of the century, 1900’s.
The detail is wonderful. The edges are scalloped, with gold highlights. The flowers are delicate. It’s very lovely and I enjoy mixing high and low items, like using a towel for the tablecloth with this elegant china.
The tulips are just starting to open. They are in a simple water pitcher.
I usually serve special meals in our dining room, but wanted to have this meal in our breakfast nook. It’s smaller, but nice and cozy.
I put the forks upside down by American standards. From what I understand, the French set their tables this way at home. Many of my French forks are very elaborate on the back, and this way you can admire the beautiful designs. These French forks are simple with no design on the back, but the hallmarks are on the top, so it appears these are also to be placed on the table upside down.
I found these small plates that coordinate with my dishes, but they are not Haviland. I am guessing these are for butter pats, but I wasn’t sure. I thought they could also be as salt cellars.
I love this creamer from Peggy. I love purple transferware and this piece is dreamy. It shows sign of wear, which make it even more charming.
Your table is so lovely Anita! The purple transferware looks so pretty with your striped tablecloth. I love that it is in your beautiful breakfast room too! It’s so cozy!
Hugs Jennifer!
Anita…..I love following you. You use so many things that YOU love and putting them together make them so sweet and homey….I have some of the same dishes you do and also put forks and spoons upside down…I saw it in France on a mission trip and just fell in love with it…You are one of the blogs I follow everyday…I feel I know you..God Bless you sweet lady..He has given you a gift …By the way I am in Texas now with my husband at a board mtg with some of the loveliest ladies…Dallas…
Anita, your table looks beautiful! The colors really bring spring to the table. Your Haviland is beautiful, what makes Haviland Limoges so wonderful {besides the obvious} is that at one time it was so very popular, almost every bride registered for it, so that there are so many different patterns, and they all mix with other patterns so beautifully. It’s always a joy to be on a tour with you. Happy Spring! xo Lidy
Your dishes are beautiful. Those wood be perfect for butter pats flavored with fresh lemon rhyme. Easy to make and can use small egg cookie cutter shape.
Cindy
Your Haviland dishes are gorgeous Anita, and perfect for spring!
I love how you styled your table. I adore the Limoges! The purple tulips go well with the transfer ware. The purple transfer ware has always been my favorite!
What a lovely and elegant Easter table. Those Easter bunnies that hold the eggs are adorable. Thank You for sharing.
Marilyn
Very elegant. Love it.
Hello,
I love your french table in your breakfast nook. Can you direct me to where I can see more pictures of the bare table with dimensions etc. as I’m hoping to copy the table for one of my own – the leg shape and proportions are just perfect! You are so lucky to have it – here in Australia any french furniture is so expensive!
I am inspired by your home as it combines french antique and more contemporary finds in the french style so elegantly and seemlessly.
Regards Jeanine
I adore your purple transferware and of course, tulips are always perfect for spring! Your table looks lovely and I LOVE seeing it in this room because it’s probably my favorite room in your house:)
Happy Spring to you!
Sheila
xo
You have inspired me to use my Haviland. And the upside down fork setting makes so much sense. Don’t know why I never thought of it. Thank you for always sharing your wonderful insight and ideas.
Oh Marilyn, yes use your special dishes!!!
Anita, this is so gorgeous! I love your dishes. Beautiful table setting as usual, my friend.
Hugs, Jamie
Haviland – me too! Turkish Towel – me too! Gorgeous Nita Jean! Love it all!!
Anita, the Haviland pieces are breathtaking!! I’m a high-low girl too, but I sure do love my delicate china! What a lovely table!
Anita This looks absolutely beautiful!!!
Lovey Easter tablescape –so colorful and warm! Your Haviland china is perfect for Spring and your covered dish is to die for!
Your table is so lovely and put everything together so nicely. I’ve never seen forks upside down and I’m going to try it on our table. I bet the kids will be wondering why I placed them that way…lol.
Such a beautiful tablescape! This post is Featured at Merry Monday this week. I agree with Erlene. I haven’t seen forks upside down either but I really like that idea!
I’ve inherited a house in Eastern Europe and they are very BIG on their china. You just inspired me to dig deep before redecorating and see if there are some vintage pieces that I could salvage.