Iconic Patterns: Cue the Cabbage

Sunday meals are a long-standing tradition for many families; from fried chicken and coconut cake to prime rib and apple pie.  No matter the cuisine, the tables are always set with grandmother’s cabbage ware.  This leafy classic staple reminds us of family conversations and laughter that happen around the dinner table.  

Its creator, Rafale Bordallo Pinheiro was a Portuguese cartoonist in the 19^th century.  He was part of the Arts & Crafts movement rejecting industrial manufacturing and overly ornate Victorian designs.  His work helped usher in a return to the folk-art traditions by celebrating the common people.  Still to this day, Pinheiro’s designs are renowned for transforming the everyday into art.

Boradallo Pinheiro’s handcrafted cabbage collection are true works of art.  They capture your imagination with their vivid life-like personality.  This is not a plate for the shy hostess, setting your table with Pinheiro’s cabbage wear is sure to light your guests’ imaginations while bringing joy and humor to your table.

Cabbage ware is fabulous for an al fresco lunch.  Set them atop pink placemats surrounded by bamboo flatware and serving pieces.  Fill in with pink peonies and fluffy white hydrangeas, and you may spot Peter Rabbit peeking out from behind the flowers.

If you are looking to elevate your tablescape yet keep a touch of playfulness, create the feel of an enchanted forest.  Pair the bright green cabbage ware with cool navy table linens.  

And keep it woodsy by adding in some tortoise shell pattern glasses and rattan chargers.

An autumn harvest table is easy to pull together with a cornucopia of fall foliage and berries.  Cabbage ware looks positively perfect on a fall palette of oranges and golds.  Or opt for the unexpected choosing reds and greens, apples and pears make great fall tabletop décor.

Borradallo Pinheiro’s factory has survived three revolutions and still operates as a ceramic school. For those wanderlust travelers, slightly imperfect pieces are sold just outside the factory doors in Caldas da Rainha.  For those not up for quite such a journey, pop by Clementine and we will happily freshen your china cabinets with this timeless earthenware.