There are as many if not more versions of the Blue Willow pattern as there are legends connected to the design. The Traditional Pattern is characterized by four figures (three of which are seen on a three arch bridge and one in a boat), two birds, a teahouse, the famous "Willow Tree," orange trees, and a fence in the foreground. There is also an inner border of geometric designs. The Japanese versions usually do not have this inner border however, but usually carry the Traditional Border Pattern with its wheel or circular design being the main characteristic.

My personal collection consists mostly of pieces having the word JAPAN stamped on the bottom in black letters. There are  other Japanese versions having blue writing. Some say Occupied Japan, others read Made in Japan or Made in Occupied Japan. Although the Blue Willow was not originally designed by the Chinese, its components relate to Oriental culture. My favorite Blue Willow story or legend is as follows:

Once upon a time there lived a very wealthy mandarin who had a beautiful daughter named Hong Shee. There was also a boy named Chang who loved Hong Shee. To keep them apart, the mandarin imprisoned his daughter in the palace.

One day she escaped and the two lovers raced over the bridge to a waiting boat, her father in hot pursuit. They managed to elude the mandarin, reach the boat and sail away.

A storm developed, the boat foundered, and the couple were lost at sea. It is said two love birds appeared immediately thereafter--the spirits of Hong Shee and Chang.

When comparing the story to the design on the plate--the pattern does seem to come alive! You will find yourself actually believing the legend through the illustration pictured there. Odd as it may seem however; the legends were told after the design was created--their origin being English and American.

Since there is a very long history of the Blue Willow Pattern collectors have quite an assortment to choose from. English pieces from the early 1800's are classified as true antiques as they are over 100 years old. Many pieces manufactured in Japan and the United States in the latter part of the 19th century and early part of the 20th century will soon reach this antique status. Pieces from 1930 - 1950 are definitely collector items and because of their scarcity, even pieces from the 60's and 70's are considered collectible.

In the past few years collecting Blue Willow Ware has become quite popular. Many items carry a premium price though they are not all that old. If the piece is in good condition, is of good quality, or is an unusual piece, it will command a premium price. So, on one of your excursions to an antique sale, an estate sale, or even a garage sale, be on the look out. You never know what  Blue Willow Treasure you may find!