Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Let's Put Our Heads Together


Henriot Quimper ~ Ivoire Corbeille Decor


I've yet to set a table for the new year,

so instead of a tablescape I'm sharing 

some pieces from my collection of Quimper in

 a pattern affectionally known simply as IC.
The Ivoire Corbeille pattern dates from the 1930s, when it was first produced by the Henriot Factory in Quimper, France.  It is a rather distinctive decor that features elements from various earlier decors found on Quimper pottery.


The rose colored half sunflower, in the a la touché technique, was most likely influenced by an early HR design of a bird on a half sunflower, while pieces from the 19th century AP production in the bluets pattern could have influenced the sponged circlets that are distinctive to this pattern.




Here is an example of an HR plate in a design that likely influenced the rose colored half sunflower design often found on pieces painted in the Ivoire Corbeille pattern.  Click here to see a complete tablescape featuring this plate and other Quimper plates with a bird motif.




This large serving bowl was the 

first piece I purchased in the IC pattern.  

The central figure was inspired by 

the figures in the demi-fantasie pattern.  




I find the little sponged 

circlets a charming touch.




I also like the mix of blues and yellows 

atop the ivory colored background.





The sponged rims are another 

characteristic typically found on pieces of IC.





These two pieces offer yet another motif 

that you see around the central part of each pitcher.




Last but not least is this large fruit bowl 

with its distinctive swan handle.




What you say, let's put our heads together!



Tutorials, Tips, and Tidbits @ Stone Gable

 I'm reversing the process this week for TTT @ Stone Gable.

Help me come up with some ideas for a tablescape using these limited number of pieces in this pattern.  I have two sets of the large cups and saucers, the little figural egg cup, one plate, a large bowl, two pitchers, and the swan basket. Leave me a comment with your ideas and suggestions. Tell me what I should use to set a pretty table featuring the Ivoire Corbeille pattern.

Joining




on

59 comments:

  1. Entertaining WomenJanuary 2, 2013 at 9:29 PM

    Oh my, my mouth is watering. I visualize the texture of matelasse for the tablecloth....a table for two...perhaps utilize glass, a nice rimmed soup to top the plate and a nice glass plate to anchor your bowl. The kissing swans are obviously the center piece, and the pitchers might hold flowers, too. I see a heavy goblet, perhaps in blue, sitting alongside the cups and saucers. I picture touches of wood on the table...maybe a charger...or wood handles flatware, as a nod to the primitive tone that the tables of country
    French might have used....Baguettes in two different containers, perhaps faïence?...flaring vertically...or horizontally in a wooden dough bowl..oh the possibilities are endless! Magnificent pieces. Thanks for sharing them with us. Happy New Year, sweet friend. Cherry Kay

    ReplyDelete
  2. SarahJanuary 2, 2013 at 9:41 PM

    Thanks, Cherry Kay. Your ideas are making my mouth water. I have a couple of French matelasse. One in yellow that just might be perfect for this. I hadn't thought of using it. See.....two heads are better than one. Definitely have the wood table. Love the idea of bringing in blue glass, which we have. Thanks for sharing these terrific ideas, dear friend. ~ Sarah

    ReplyDelete
  3. Linda @ A La CarteJanuary 2, 2013 at 10:25 PM

    What an unusual pattern! I know you will set a great table with it. Hugs, Linda

    ReplyDelete
  4. EviJanuary 2, 2013 at 10:38 PM

    Sarah,
    these are really beautiful!
    Whatever you do, it will be spectacular. I can see it also on natural colored woven placemats for a rustic feel, or a lighter blue textured linen tablecloth.
    You will find just the right kind of setting, and your guests will love whatever you come up with.
    Sarah, happy and healthy new year to you and your family. Isn't it nice to have met in blogland!!!
    Hugs, Evi

    ReplyDelete
  5. Shabby Brocante, KarenJanuary 2, 2013 at 10:39 PM

    I was thinking of a table for two as well. The man for the woman and vice versa....whatever you do with these pieces it will just lovely! I really can't get over your gorgeous collection! I love learning about your pieces!
    Karen

    ReplyDelete
  6. Debra@CommonGroundJanuary 2, 2013 at 10:55 PM

    these pieces are gorgeous Sarah, love the pattern. I have a set of Quimperware that was my wedding "china". I always love seeing the wonderful varieties!

    ReplyDelete
  7. ScribblerJanuary 2, 2013 at 11:02 PM

    What an enviable collection! I have never seen this pattern. You have taught me something new!

    ReplyDelete
  8. PriscillaJanuary 2, 2013 at 11:09 PM

    This pattern is new to me. The swan dish is so charming. I wouldn't know where to begin with a table setting. You are much more talented. I usually leave that up to my daughter, who has been setting the table for my dinner parties since she was about 9 or 10.

    ReplyDelete
  9. LynnJanuary 3, 2013 at 4:28 AM

    The pieces are beautiful Sarah, love the little duck egg cup:@)

    ReplyDelete
  10. SueJanuary 3, 2013 at 6:14 AM

    So lovely to see your Quimper being put to good use.
    Love the border on the 7th and 8th picture. I've never seen that before.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Carlene @ Organized ClutterJanuary 3, 2013 at 6:40 AM

    Sadly I don't have any Quimper. I guess I have never run across it or I would have picked up some pieces. Sarah, there is so much pattern and detail you wouldn't need a tablescape. They are perfect for vignettes.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Ricki TreleavenJanuary 3, 2013 at 7:35 AM

    I love the IC pattern....it is gorgeous! I think it would be fun to use these pieces as serving pieces on a buffet, and mix them with something else. That's what I'd do!!! :D

    xo,
    RJ

    ReplyDelete
  13. TriciaJanuary 3, 2013 at 7:46 AM

    Thank you for showing us your wonderful collection, Sarah! I think a breakfast setting for two would work beautifully -- the large cups for cafe au lait, the plate for croissants, the egg cup (obviously!) for a boiled egg, the marvelous swan bowl for fresh fruit, and the pitchers for juice!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Linda (More Fun Less Laundry)January 3, 2013 at 7:50 AM

    Hi Sarah, I came by your blog last night but decided to ponder your question before commenting! I think a blue base would work well, with the large plate for goodies and some solid dishes for individual servings. Maybe one of the pitchers for a centerpiece filled with flowers...I know you will come up with something beautiful. I really enjoyed this post and learned so much too. Linda

    ReplyDelete
  15. kitty@ Kitty's Kozy KitchenJanuary 3, 2013 at 9:20 AM

    Hi Sarah, what a lovely collection you have. I think a blue base would be so pretty to display your pretty dishes for a table for two. However, you always make such gorgeous tablescapes so it will be fun to see what you come up with. Happy playing with dishes.

    ReplyDelete
  16. SarahJanuary 3, 2013 at 11:06 AM

    Thanks to each of you for your suggestions. I'm making notes of all the ideas and planning something to share later. A table for two is likely what it will be because it's just the two of us more often than not. ;-)
    ~ Sarah

    ReplyDelete
  17. La Table De NanaJanuary 3, 2013 at 11:45 AM

    I have mentioned before how I think so many of your collections are exquisite:) This one is no exception Sarah.
    The way you have photographed them for us..is well auction worthy..fine auction:)

    So our little ME calendar is just as dear as each previous one.. isn't it?My husband is so used to it too now..I often post a page on the fridge(yes I have one of those..with recent photos of the boys etc..a definite nono if selling a house:) ) but for us it's cozy.It looks quite weird when it's bare..
    Anyway..I started writing something ..since the first..on each finished page..nothing earth shattering..and I will see how long it lasts:) I journal..but not every day..this may prove to be a good tool to remember some things:)
    Here's to everyone's NEW YEAR.

    ReplyDelete
  18. On Crooked CreekJanuary 3, 2013 at 1:48 PM

    Sarah,
    I adore the rose hued half~sunflower on these Quimper plates!!!
    I'd say soft blue table linens small pattern yellow and blue napkins, luncheon table for two, Sunflower centerpiece and colored stemware!!! But, dear one...I'm sure using the lovely Quimper pieces you have plus your gorgeous linens you will thrill us with something fabulous!!! I'll be anxiously waiting the reveal!!!
    Fondly,
    Pat

    ReplyDelete
  19. Jeanne, backyard neighborJanuary 3, 2013 at 6:10 PM

    Beautiful Quimper collection and the history was great to know. How fun to use some pieces for a tablescape.
    wishing you a wonderful 2013.
    xo, Jeanne

    ReplyDelete
  20. BabsJanuary 3, 2013 at 6:49 PM

    Sarah, your Quimper pieces are gorgeous and I really enjoyed your explanation of the history of the designs.
    Hugs,
    Babs

    ReplyDelete
  21. The French HutchJanuary 3, 2013 at 7:20 PM

    Oh my Sarah! First I think all the ideas are wonderful in the comments. Cherry Kay's suggestion sounds lovely. I love the Ivoire Corbeille pattern, and the colors are gorgeous! You have so many beautiful plates and chargers to work with. I'm thinking it might be fun to mix and match these pieces with your MacKenzie-Childs for a table for two. Sometimes I love the table with no tablecloth, china on wood is gorgeous too. The swan bowl (why didn't I get one) is the perfect centerpiece with the pitchers holding flowers. You'll have fun designing a tablescape using these pieces! Can't wait to see.......

    ~Emily
    The French Hutch

    ReplyDelete
  22. Yvonne @ StoneGableJanuary 3, 2013 at 7:20 PM

    Your collection must be just incredible!!! Thanks for educating us and sharing all the Quimper loveliness!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Patti @ Pandoras BoxJanuary 3, 2013 at 7:29 PM

    Lovely collection...and great suggestions for you. I am sure however you use these, we will be in awe! These are very unique and precious!!

    ReplyDelete
  24. MarlisJanuary 3, 2013 at 8:53 PM

    This is just fabulous.. oh my.. a golden/yellow textured cloth... matelasse? some pretty spring flowers in the pitcher.. something blue to pick up the colors in the quimper... It's so lovely.. have the happiest of years ahead.. xo marlis

    ReplyDelete
  25. awal.nyJanuary 4, 2013 at 6:09 AM

    Great colors in the patterns. I would go simple with any other patterns and just use bold colors to let the dishes stand out.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Jacqueline~Cabin and CottageJanuary 4, 2013 at 9:53 AM

    Hi Sarah! Happy New Year! Love your beautiful dishes. I think they would look wonderful shown off all together as a buffet centerpiece with flowers at one of your famous ladies luncheons. I wouldn't want to cover them up with food! :o)

    ReplyDelete
  27. Decor To AdoreJanuary 4, 2013 at 10:56 AM

    Oh I adore quimper! What a collection!

    May we all have a happy, peaceful and prosperous NEW YEAR!

    ReplyDelete
  28. debraJanuary 4, 2013 at 12:45 PM

    I am not a tablescaper so I can truthfully say that just looking at your pictures and reading the information is wonderful enough! :)

    ReplyDelete
  29. BernideenJanuary 4, 2013 at 6:08 PM

    What an outstanding collection you have!! I am so pleased that you linked to "Open House" Sarah!

    ReplyDelete
  30. RettabugJanuary 4, 2013 at 8:39 PM

    What wonderful pieces, Sarah! I am impressed with your knowledge & expansive collection of these beautiful items.
    Did I tell you I was on a home tour & they had an entire display WALL of Quimper? I was so proud that I knew what it was. (my DD was surprised)

    Whatever you do with them will be spectacular, I know. There are so many ways you could go & I can't wait to see what you decide.

    fondly,
    Rett

    ReplyDelete
  31. Pattie @ Olla-PodridaJanuary 4, 2013 at 8:54 PM

    I love Quimperware! I see yellow tulips in one (or both) of these pitchers, yellow napkins, a pale blue matelasse, and white plates so as not to detract from the beautiful design in the pitchers. You must have twenty different table settings just mixing and matching these pieces.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Castles Crowns and CottagesJanuary 5, 2013 at 6:01 AM

    Beautiful Sarah!

    This table ware is so exquisite,and it just takes me straight to the lush countryside of France that I know and love. Being there in this region of France 10 years ago was unreal. Seeing the wild geese stroll by,the rivers, the cottages, and the feel of life floating by is all expressed in the art.

    Thank you for sharing the lovelies that set our tables, and for coming to see my work. It will be an interesting year to see how far I can push my art and where it will take me!

    Have a lovely Saturday! Anita

    ReplyDelete
  33. Johanna GehrleinJanuary 5, 2013 at 8:54 AM

    Hi Sarah,
    I am sure, you will set them in a absolutely stunning combination. Because you asked I will tell you my idea. Because you have not a full st of this Quimper pattern, I would use them as serving pieces. I would use the pewter chargers and a set of plain blue and/or yellow dishes in addition. The menue could be a Italian Pinzimonia, which is short cooked vegetables and eggs to eat with tuna dip and/or maijonaise. I would use the eggholder as salter and the two cups for the dips. On the plates you could serve some sliced vegetables. The mugs are for wine and water or you use the small mug to serve long celery like in a vase. And the wonderful swan bowl I would use for French bread. I am curious, how you will set the table. The Quimper pottery makes my heart sung. It has some relation to the Italien Deruta pottery and the sponged circles remind me very to Bunzlauer Ceramics from Poland. Thank you for the very interesting informations about the Henriot patterns.
    Best greetings, Johanna

    ReplyDelete
  34. PondsideJanuary 5, 2013 at 5:50 PM

    How beautiful.
    I'd like to see a table set as for 'best' in a simple home. A snowy cloth, or perhaps an ivory lace cloth - some elements of wood......perhaps a bread bowl or wooden chargers...and the meal would be on the hearty side - sauerkraut and pork or a whole fish. I see it with old silver serving pieces and heavy glasses.
    You are going to have fun with this!

    ReplyDelete
  35. DianeJanuary 5, 2013 at 6:00 PM

    I am having severe dish envy - what beautiful pieces. I love birds, but was especially blown away by the swan handled bowl - wow!!

    ReplyDelete
  36. Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your HomeJanuary 5, 2013 at 7:50 PM

    Such beautiful pieces Sarah, especially love the swan bowl!
    Hope you are having a GREAT weekend!
    Blessings,
    Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  37. xinexJanuary 5, 2013 at 8:38 PM

    Such unique and gorgeous pieces, Sarah! Cherry Ksy has excellent ideas. Can't wait to see what you come up with and I know it will be awesome. Happy Bew Year!...Christine

    ReplyDelete
  38. Rattlebridge FarmJanuary 5, 2013 at 9:06 PM

    I'll look forward to seeing your future tablescape with the IC. Just beautiful. Thanks so much for your great idea for the porch! I'll look into it!

    ReplyDelete
  39. DianneJanuary 5, 2013 at 9:33 PM

    Sarah,
    You have an amazing collection and a wealth of knowledge about it. I love the colors, but that plate with the birds is my favorite. I am going to show this to my friend Suzanne who also has some Quimper. Can't wait to see what you do with it. Dianne

    ReplyDelete
  40. The TablescaperJanuary 5, 2013 at 9:49 PM

    Sarah:

    I love your collection. Why not try pulling out a color that you haven't used with the set before. Then accent it throughout - glasses, etc.

    Wonderful to have you be a part of Seasonal Sundays.

    - The Tablescaper

    ReplyDelete
  41. AnonymousJanuary 5, 2013 at 11:01 PM

    While I don't collect Quimper, I always admire it, both the old and the new. I do have one piece that I bought at an antique show several years ago. It is a tray for pens and has two little ink bottles. I couldn't resist it because it was different, but it is likely to be a one piece collection.

    ReplyDelete
  42. BethJanuary 6, 2013 at 7:53 PM

    Your Quimper pieces are gorgeous! Enjoy them - you got a lot of ideas for how to incorporate them into a pretty tablescape.

    ReplyDelete
  43. The Charm of HomeJanuary 7, 2013 at 4:59 PM

    What gorgeous pieces Sarah! You have the best collections! Happy New Year!
    Sherry

    ReplyDelete
  44. Miss KittyJanuary 7, 2013 at 7:37 PM

    Thank you so much for sharing all of your great knowledge and those fun pictures of your quimper ware. I just love seeing all that detail...was it all handpainted on at the factory? The picture that you used for your thumbnail over at the Cowgirl Up party is great...really got my attention...and such a cute caption.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Zuni, Chickadee Home NestJanuary 8, 2013 at 12:41 AM

    Hi, Sarah. Not only are these dishes beautiful, but they're sweet too. I would love to see the tablescape you create! Lots of color? or a serene backdrop and accessories? I hope to see one soon. Happy new year to you! ~Zuni

    ReplyDelete
  46. bjJanuary 8, 2013 at 8:39 AM

    I've always loved Quimper...so beautiful. You have such a nice collection. These are going to make a table COME ALIVE. Just beautiful.

    ReplyDelete
  47. MaryJanuary 8, 2013 at 3:56 PM

    I love your Quimper pieces Sarah! My head feels sluggish, probably from all the Christmas calories & carbs still coursing through my system :) I always feel stumped when it comes to posting and putting something together on the heels of Christmas. Maybe a Quimper picnic for two at the table?

    ReplyDelete
  48. Bargain Decorating with LaurieJanuary 8, 2013 at 6:26 PM

    Sarah, who needs a tablescape when you can show these beauties? You are sooo knowledgable about the Quimper. You are a serious collector. I just buy it because I love the way it looks. I loved seeing some of your collection. Isn't that handle with the swans just the most graceful touch? In my opinion, any table with Quimper on it is a wonderful table. It almost doesn't matter how it's arranged. laurie

    ReplyDelete
  49. Judy BiggerstaffJanuary 8, 2013 at 6:47 PM

    Thank you Sarah for sharing your Quimper pieces plus your knowledge of it. I must admit I know nothing about it but do especially like the swan heads. Keep educating me.

    ReplyDelete
  50. SoutherncookJanuary 8, 2013 at 6:56 PM

    I am just in awe of your collection of Quimper. I wish I had started a collection of Quimper years ago. I was at an antique show a couple of years ago and there was a booth there with so much very old Quimper pieces, I had to do a double take and went back to that booth at least a dozen times, it was breath taking. Quimper is now so very expensive for some really good old pieces. Every time I visit your blog and there is some Quimper in your photographs I think to myself, "You really do need to start another collection." I am trying to resist but I am so drawn to it and your collection is amazing. Thank you for sharing it with us in blog land.

    Carolyn/A Southterner's Notebook

    ReplyDelete
  51. Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of SuburbiaJanuary 8, 2013 at 9:31 PM

    WOWZA, the pieces are gorgeous and the colors are perfect!!! Thanks for linking up.
    XO
    Kristin

    ReplyDelete
  52. Anita at Cedar Hill January 9, 2013 at 11:41 AM

    Love those gorgeous pieces!

    ReplyDelete
  53. Julie MarieJanuary 9, 2013 at 2:35 PM

    Hello Sarah... and thank you so much for visiting my post this morning... your Quimper is just beautiful!... your collection is so lovely, it makes me want to start collecting it... xoxo Julie Marie

    ReplyDelete
  54. KathleenJanuary 9, 2013 at 5:55 PM

    You have such wonderful collections, not just the Q , but so many unique things!
    I am sure you will come up with something!
    Thanks for linking to Let's Dish!

    ReplyDelete
  55. Steph's StitchingJanuary 9, 2013 at 9:34 PM

    Gorgeous pieces.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Sherry @ No Minimalist HereJanuary 9, 2013 at 10:40 PM

    Sarah, You know I am a lover of Quimper and these are such beautiful pieces. Of course,your entire collection is gorgeous. Thank you for linking to the Open House party.
    xx, Sherry

    ReplyDelete
  57. FABBY'S LIVINGJanuary 10, 2013 at 10:36 AM

    Oh dear Sarah, just got here and so glad I didn't miss this gorgeousness! Can I just be Quimper jelous??!! Your collection is stunning, I love every piece of it, although I would never have these beauty as they will never them here for sale. Thank you again for your sweet and kind visit, lovely lady. Hugs,
    FABBY

    ReplyDelete
  58. The Quintessential MagpieJanuary 11, 2013 at 10:40 AM

    I'm late to the party, Sarah, but here's a go at creating a vignette. I see a grapevine charger under the plate which has a wonderful round cheese or two (one on top of the other) already sliced on it, interspersed with slices of green apple, and I see all of this on top of a great French cloth on a little table in the garden or looking out a window. A vignette for two with an antique leather book of poetry next to it so that you can enjoy reading poetry aloud with your leisurely snack. I see one of the pitchers filled with flowers (sunflowers if any are blooming now, or a large bunch of yellow ones) to dispel the gloom of winter. I see the other pitcher filled with wine. What's a french table without wine? I see green apples in the large bowl with one cut open amongst the rest (waiting to take its place on the little plate), and I see figs (possibly dried ones) in the little swan. Things that you can easily eat with your fingers on an indoor picnic. ;-) I see a delightful French cheese knife (maybe with a horn handle? or a Fiddle Thread piece?) mixed in for good measure next to the plate.. I see some French bread on a bread board nearby, already partially sliced. And maybe you could tuck some extra baugettes in with the apples? Use handsome linen napkins in yellow or maybe blue, and you will eat sans plates unless you want to improvise with the saucers. If you do, then you could put small posies in the cups. And you could do a grouping with the pitcher, elevating one cup on some of the antique leather books. If you don't want to use the saucers that way, then stack them up with the cups on top of some books in a nice arrangement just to please the eye. I think the table should be wood and the cloth oversized and on point. That's all I can think of for now, but you get my drift! If it were spring, I would tell you to move the picnic outside with a large wicker hamper and a blue cloth under it all. But this would set a very sunny picnic!

    XO,

    Sheila

    XO,

    Sheila

    ReplyDelete
  59. DebbiedoosJanuary 20, 2013 at 7:27 PM

    I have never heard of these. I do indeed love them and the colors are just right for me:)

    ReplyDelete

Thank you to each of you who take the time to leave a comment. I read and appreciate each and every one and will respond to any questions. Your notes are the only way I know who has stopped in for a visit.