How to Enjoy the Story of Blue Willow China

Blue Willow is one of the oldest continuously printed china patterns. It was introduced by Spode in 1790 apparently based on an even earlier Chinese pattern called Mandarin.

However, there has always existed a story behind the history. It illustrates the Chinese understanding of eternal love and the supernatural.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• blue willow china plate or bowl
• magnifying glass, if needed

1. 
    
   palace of cathay with orange tree

   Locate the palace of Cathay (modern day China) owned by the wealthy mandarin T'so Ling. Its blue tile roof gleams in the sunlight. Behind the palace is an orange tree and a hand made fence.

2. 
    

   Find the willow tree for which the pattern is named. This tree overlooks a river beside T'so Ling's palace and provides shade from the heat of the day.

3. 
    
   Koong-se's residence on left with peach tree.

   Look for the smaller building next to the main palace. Inside is T'so Ling's most prized possession, his daughter Koong- se. She passes her days listening to tales of old Cathay. T'so Ling has arranged for her to marry a wealthy mandarin, Ta- Jin. However, she has already fallen in love with a poor young clerk named Chang.

4. 
    
   figures are either the villagers or Koong-se and Chang being chased by T'so Ling

   Turn your attention to the footbridge. T'so Ling has learned of Chang's love for Koong-se, and banishes him on pain of death. When the despondant Koong- se wanders off into the night, her father sends his trusted villagers to look for her. In the confusion, Koong-se and Chang are reunited.

5. 
    
   Koong-se and Chang transformed.

   Finally, look for two doves. They represent the conclusion of the story. Although the lovers are reunited, they are still being pursued. Quan Yin, the goddess of compassion is looking down on them from heaven and her heart is filled with pity. In an instant they are transformed into doves so they may be together forever.

Tips & Warnings

• There are as many subtly different versions of this story as the pattern itself. All of them end with the two lovers flying away together. See which one you prefer.
• In the top left corner you will see what appears to be an island containing another building. A sadder version of the story has it that the two survived for a while on this island and built their own house before being attacked by the vengeful Ta- jin.
• As with all folklore, the spiritual truth this story illustrates should not be taken as literal fact.

[bizilady]

on 11/19/2009 interesting information..I have this pattern and didn't know that

[sullysee]

on 11/10/2009 Well done article on the story of Blue Willow China with exquisite pictures. 5*

[braintees]

on 11/8/2009 You know, your articles are so interesting to me... But this one is my favorite! Love it! Saving it to my favorites too.... Thank you! 5* fav

[monaliesa]

on 11/8/2009 Loved this article. We all know Blue Willow has been around forever but don't know the story behind it.

[konakai]

on 10/8/2009 Wonderful story of Blue Willow China. Thanks for sharing. 5*****