Thursday, January 31, 2019

Chinese New Year, Vintage Style

February 5 begins a new year on the traditional Chinese calendar. Lunar New Year celebrations start on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month of the Chinese calendar and last for about 23 days. As a result, it comes on a different date each year. I particularly enjoy celebrations during the long winter months. They provide something to look forward to and moments of bright color to brighten what can be quite dreary days.

I've set a  New Year table, using as color inspiration the small platter that I recently bought. 

The platter depicts a pheasant, primarily blue, that sports a riot of feathers. It flies toward vivid red lanterns decorated in gold.

The table is set for two today. I've used primarily red and gold, starting with a gold charger and a gold-rimmed dinner plate. On top of these are salad plates I've had for several years and featured here. Now for the details — red napkins, chopsticks, gold soup spoons on the right.

On the left are soup bowls and red envelopes. Placing money in  red envelopes is a way to express good wishes and convey luck. The bowls were purchased for a different holiday, but if I hadn't told you, would you have guessed?

Vintage glassware in amber is decorated with flowers and vines that are very like the ones on the salad plates. Their smaller size seemed a good fit for a Chinese-inspired table.

We will unabashedly order takeout for dinner! The platter will hold a delicious selection of dim sum.

A blue glass pheasant by Paden City, created in the first half of the 20th century, has alighted in the center. It's one of a pair we purchased at a glass show in Cartersville, GA. If you've never been to one, you can get a taste of the experience at Glassware Everywhere.

Blooming in a pretty red is a Christmas cactus. In spite of its name, mine always bloom in late January!

I love the colors!



More buds are appearing. Although these are not native to Asia, I couldn't resist adding them with their pretty red blooms to the table.



Pattern on pattern!

I was lucky to catch the morning sun highlighting the glass pheasant. Perhaps the red envelopes will indeed bring me good fortune!



Table Resources
Dinner plates | Royal Doulton 'Alice'
Platter | Williams-Sonoma 'Lunar New Year'
Salad plates | Williams-Sonoma 'New Moon'
Tumblers | Jeannette (Floragold) 'Louisa Iridescent'



   
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  


16 comments:

  1. Your Oriental tablescape is stunning dear friend. I love Oriental pieces and I have done Chinese NY in the past and I was just thinking that I haven't in so long. I'm smitten with your pheasant plates and blue glasses too and your 'not-Xmas' plant, it is just perfect for this lovely setting !
    I just came from TT at BNOTP.
    Hugs,
    Fabby

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    1. Thanks so much, Fabby! I love the patterns and colors of Asian art and have pieces sprinkled throughout our home. Happy New Year!

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  2. Wow, beautiful table! Loving those dishes and the color. Just what this winter gal needs when stuck inside on cold days.

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    1. Christine, thank you! Color makes me happy and deep, vibrant color and pattern warms my personal space, no matter the weather.

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  3. I've never done Chinese decor; this is just so gorgeous! I love the richness of the colors--a delightful change from farmhouse neutrals!

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    1. Thanks, Kathy. I, too, love the bold colors that are welcome this time time of year.

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  4. Sandra, I love the drama of your Chinese New Year setting! The pretty golds, reds, and the turquoise blue of the pheasants make a wow statement during the winter season. Take-out would be perfect to sit at your beautiful table!

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    1. Thanks so much for your comments, Pam! I'm leaving this table up for at least two weeks -- the colors just seem to lift my spirits!

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  5. Wow!How gorgeous and exquisite your table is!!!The Christmas cactus is called here May flower!That red one is wonderful!Hugs!

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    1. Thanks so much! I really enjoyed putting this table together. The Christmas cactus is now blooming its head off, lol!

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  6. What a striking tablescape! Thanks for sharing at Vintage Charm!

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    1. Thank you! When I bought the vintage glass pheasants, I didn't realize how well they went with my Chinese-inspired dishes.

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  7. This is so beautiful and unique! I was happy to feature you at TFT this past week! https://followtheyellowbrickhome.com/ten-inspiring-valentines-day-features-at-tft/

    I hope you have a lovely Valentine's Day!

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    1. Thank you, Amber! It was generous of you to add me to your great list of features.

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  8. how very beautiful …. love the tablescape and all the great fun it promises
    come see us at http://shopannies.blogspot.com

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    1. Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving your sweet comments!

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