Flow blue originated in Staffordshire, England around 1825. Flow blue's characteristic depth of color is a result of reaction to chlorinated vapors in the kiln causing the cobalt color to spread and blur. Today, one way of valuing flow blue is determined by the depth and spread of the color. Serious collectors pursue particular patterns and manufacturers. My budget does not allow for that kind of selectivity; I don't even mind a few chips as long as they are not prominent.
Flow blue is utterly enchanting when used in traditional design such as a display of plates on a wall or arranged in a hutch. This collection belonging to blogger Pamela Gordon was passed down through several generations and she recalls her mother using it daily.
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Even though flow blue is considered a valuable collectable, I especially love when it someone actually uses their flow blue in addition to merely displaying it.
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This striking black kitchen designed by Friederike Kemp Biggs and photographed by Derry Moore for Architectural Digest features flow blue among other blue and white porcelain. Many collectors mix blue and whites.
This striking black kitchen designed by Friederike Kemp Biggs and photographed by Derry Moore for Architectural Digest features flow blue among other blue and white porcelain. Many collectors mix blue and whites.
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The charm of flow blue for me lies in its blurred, almost smudged appearance. It is not so formal as some of the other blue and whites and I can readily imagine it gracing a rustic antique farm or zinc topped table. Here is how I would love to use a collection of flow blue and I would use it!
The charm of flow blue for me lies in its blurred, almost smudged appearance. It is not so formal as some of the other blue and whites and I can readily imagine it gracing a rustic antique farm or zinc topped table. Here is how I would love to use a collection of flow blue and I would use it!
Dinner is Served!
