Welcome to the 80th Tablescape Thursday!
It came a rare, warm day in February…
Bluebirds came to dine…
And the late afternoon sun created wonderful shadows.
Its warmth made eyelids heavy…a nap would surely follow.
The beautiful bluebird day inspired a birdie tablescape…
Complete with birdie glasses…
If you’ve been reading BNOTP for a while, you may remember a post I did a while back about a china that I don’t just love…No, this china has me totally and completely obsessed. You can read that post, HERE. It all started when I came across it in a corner china cabinet of an old home on an historic home tour.
Do you see it innocently peeking out from behind that napkin? Prepare to become obsessed…it’s just that wonderful!
The china tells a 19th century tale about Baroness Rothschild. She lost her pearl necklace in the garden of her Vienna residence. Several days later it was found by her gardener, who saw birds playing with it in a tree. I was hooked before I even heard the story…once I heard the story, I was just plain ruined.
The Rothschild Bird pattern, was first created in 1850 for the Rothschild family of Europe. There are 12 different “motifs” showing different birds in different scenes…all playing with Baroness Rothschild’s necklace up high in the trees. Do you see it hanging there, wound around the branches? Those sneaky little birds.
There are even cute little bugs on the back of each plate.
I wanted to bring out the green in the Rothschild Bird china so I paired it with some green leafy plates.
I decided to mix things up a bit with the flatware…I used both Spode Woodland and Napoleon Bee.
This pattern can also be purchased with a green, blue or brown border in the well known Herend “fish-scale” design. The green border is my most favorite of all the Rothschild Bird patterns, but unfortunately, it costs over $1,300 for a single place setting in the green. A bread plate alone is $230. Yikes. Here are the 12 motifs…the green is so much prettier in person than the pics show.
I’ve enlarged this mosaic for those who have a bit higher resolution on their computer. Many connoisseurs consider Herend Rothschild Bird, to be the epitome of hand painting on porcelain.
This mosaic shows the 6 salad plates I used in today’s tablescape. So far, I’ve collected the first 8 motifs in salad plates…hope to eventually collect the other 4.
A Little Tip: If there’s a china you just love, but it’s too expensive to buy the whole set, just purchase the salad plates and pair those with a less expensive dinner plate.
A few more views before the sun disappears on this rare warm February day…
I love the shadows on the chair…
I started out with Mr. Bunny in the center of the table…
But changed my mind…
Things look so bare here on the porch without the sheers and leaves on the trees. I normally leave the sheers up during the winter but since they had never been washed, I decided to wash them…they will be going back up soon.
Is there a china that has you completely obsessed?
Looking forward to seeing your beautiful tablescapes!
Chargers: Horchow Online
Bordallo Pinheiro Green Cabbage Leaf Plates: HomeGoods & Ross
Salad Plates: eBay
Birdie Wine Glasses: Old Time Pottery, year ago
Green Beverage Glasses: Pier 1, 3-4 months ago
Stainless Flatware: Napolean Bee from Neiman Marcus, click HERE for Napolean Bee flatware Spode Woodland from CSN…click HERE for Spode Woodland flatware
Napkin Rings: Old Time Pottery
Large Birdhouse: Tuesday Morning, 2 years ago
Bunny: Michaels, 2 years ago
If you are participating in Tablescape Thursday, please be sure to add your permalink below, and not your general blog address. If you aren’t sure how to obtain your permalink or have any questions about using Mr. Linky for this post, just click HERE for detailed instructions.
Please copy and paste the Tablescape Thursday logo button to your computer. Then you can upload it to your side bar and use it in your tablescape post so your visitors will know you are participating.
Please link back to the host blog, Between Naps on the Porch. This is important because it helps those who are visiting your blog, find the other wonderful tablescapes posted for this Tablescape Thursday.
Please do not add your link below, until your tablescape post is actually published to your blog.
GOOD EVENING SUSAN! I LOVE YOUR TABLE. I like how the sun shines on the table and casts shadows. Very elegant looking…it looks like late summer too….the way the light plays on the table. Very pretty. Love the green and the white and the different patterns. Clean, spring looking and ready for spring visitors!
I still think you should publish a book of tablescapes. Every book I have looked at, at the bookstores on this topic really don't even come close to what you do on your tables. Perhaps it is more of an art than just a duty of setting the table! My whole family enjoys tablescapes more now….even my sons ask me about it!
Big smile.
Blessings,
Debbie
I love your pretty tablescape — And I do remember that post about that china — and ever since I saw yours I've seen pieces of that china here and there — in magazines and decorating books. Maybe to imitate art, you should string your pearls in that cute little nest!
Oh this is beautiful! I have seen this in a magazine. I can see why you love it! I have been meaning to do a post about what's on my "wishlist." I bought a partial set of Noritake Condoro that I am in love with and looking for more pieces. Gorgeous as always! I love the shade of green on the napkins too:-)
I'm probably going to wake up in the middle of the night thinking about that china. I can see why you were obsessed. I think I may be getting the same sickness. Hmmm, it may be a good thing. LOVE that china.
Christi @ A Southern Life
http://asouthernlife.com
Oh my Susan, I just adore this citrus green collection of pretties!
Those Rothschild dishes are the epitome of good taste & you've paired them beautifully with the cabbage leaf salad plates.
I would not have been able to decide between the bunny or the bird house. Both look great in the middle of the table.
I am soooo jealous of your sunny days. *sigh* Spring will get here eventually. God is trying to teach me patience, I'm sure of it.
Happy TT & thanks for opening the doors of your beautiful home & PORCH to us. Everybody, wipe your feet!!!!
Hugs,
Rett
Your Rothschild china is gorgeous and I love the tale of the birds and the pearls, so very sweet! Your flatware is lovely too, with the adorable bees!
What a wonderful tablescape. We've had lots of bluebirds flitting all around, but no warm days…yet! Your cat is beautiful too!
Kat 🙂
Susan, I have never seen this beautiful china. No wonder you are obsessed! It not only is exqusite, it also tells such a sweet story. Thank you for educating me! You are a dishologist! Love the greens against the white. It hints of spring! Thank you so much for hosting!
Yvonne
As always your table is Superb. I like every item and how they are displayed.. Thank you for hosting this party for us.
Oh, Susan this post has just gone to the birds! You got the pictures of the blue birds! Yes! lol I have and will always love your bird china. Now the new birdy glasses are wonderful! I agree the bird house is so much better with these lovely dishes. How good to see the sun shine on your porch again!
I love your beautiful table…so springy and all the pretty birds!
Beautiful plates..I can see why you are totally in LUV with them. They are magnificent.
Thanks, dear one, for hosting…
When a story is combined with china,it creates magic, and you have expressed this beautifully in your words and tablescaping. I like how you've mixed the flatware! I am wild about the bird glasses and love how you've blended them with the green goblets and the cabbage plates. So much to love here! Yes, I am obsessed with china–your Ma Maison is one and my Singapore Bird is another. 🙂
beautiful as always!
Susan, that table is like a breath of fresh air. It is lovely, love all the different greens.
I do remember you talking about those dishes…
I don't know that I have ONE that I love the way you love yours. I have many! I haven't started collections like yours, I think it would be dangerous for me..
Love the birdhouse centerpiece too!
What a cute story about the birds and the necklace! I think I like the birdhouse better than the bunny (I'm sure bunny will be back for Easter, he's so cute!)
Katherine
Beautiful!!
Oh dear, Susan, I guess I had better start saving for some of those plates! They're stunning, just beautiful, and are wonderful with the Bordallo cabbage, which I used for this week's table, also. Thank you for once again showing us something we may never have seen!
Herend is the absolute Grand Prize for a Disholic. 20 years ago, on my honeymoon, we went into a Herend store in Lucerne, Switzerland. That is all they sold. My new husband was aghast at the prices. I bought one little piece — about the size of a tiny pill box — and it was over $50. He got really choked up when I gave it to my matron of honor/best friend when we got home!
I never have bought any more — but I always dream and drool every time the Scully & Scully catalog arrives.
Your table is so beautiful. And no, I did not know the story about the pearls. Thanks.
Scribbler
http://scribbler-unfocused.typepad.com/
I picked out my one bird plate. Thanks for the fun. I always enjoy seeing what you've come up with. Now, I'm off to look up the bee flatware …
Susan, thanks for hosting. I just love your table setting, the bunny is so cute and the dishes are stunning.
xoxo
Those Herend dishes are simply stunning, Susan. I am obsessed now too. I also love your bird painted stems. Your whole table is gorgeous as usual, so springy!…Christine
I really love your blog. I fall more in love with dishes after looking at your beautiful tablescapes. I love to see your cat too because that is another obsession of mine. Please take a peek at my blog justcats-deb.blogspot.com. I am new to blogland and so far am having fun with my postings on cat-trivia. I do plan to post some of my dishes time-to-time. Deb
Susan, This is beautiful and you definitely should publish a book of tablescapes. Yours are amazing! Love the topiary bunny, the bird patterned plates and the story that goes along with, the cabbage plates and the bird goblets and of course, your sweet kitty! Great job! Thanks for hosting this meme; it's quickly become a favorite!
The Herend dishes are absolutely gorgeous. I can see why you are so thrilled with them. I love the cabbage leaf plates too. Such a lovely tablescape. Always beautiful as usual. Hugs, Marty
Such a beautiful St. Patrick's Day tablescape. I love those beautiful handpainted bird dishes and those goblets!
Jane
I can certainly see why you love the china. The little bugs on the back are enough to make me love it! I also love the birdhouse, it really makes this table setting. As always, everything is just perfect…how do you always do that?
Sue
Susan, where do I start, your setting is so wonderful. I love the story behind the china and the flatware, well I really like both of the patterns, your porch is so beautiful and looks so welcoming and relaxing. Smiles, Marla
It's your green that makes me sing when everything here is brown and gray. I have some of those wonderful green leafy plates as you do, but my, do I wish I could procure some of that fabulous bird china! I can see why you are addicted. Beautiful table, Susan.
I found your site recently. I too love dishes, but I don't have your talent. I will be trying, however, thanks to your inspiration.
OMG, well if I didn't have something I was obsessed with before, those plates have done it. How awesome are they, but at $1300 a place setting, I'd be ruined too!
Ditto the first comment from Debbie. My whole family (even the boys) are beginning to appreciate dishes and tablescapes. I actually think I like the salad plates you got from ebay best. I think the border on the pattern detracts from its understated beauty and charm. Also, don't know that you could mix it with other patterns quite as easily. Very well done, as usual, and I've said it before too – – you should write a book!
Lovely table, Susan. Those are amazing plates. You're so lucky to have six of them! I too love the shadows.
– The Tablescaper
Susan it is beginning to look a lot like Spring inside your house. I know you all got some snow on the outside but I will ignore that and concentrate on this delightful Spring Green table. Lovely as always and your salad plates are to-die-for. Love them, So glad you were able to get them, they needed to be in a home like yours,Kathysue
OMG, those Rothchild plates are the most beautiful things in the world! I can see why you are "ruined"!!!!!:):) I would be too, but am sure I won't be getting any:( They are SO gorgeous! My son has a set of dishes that I covet, they have coral motifs and are just beautiful too. Maybe I can "borrow" them sometime to do a table to show you….or I'll have HIm do a table:):) Thanks for hosting this. I will be posting my St. Patty's table next week as we are having the dinner group Sat. night. XO, Pinky
Your table is beautiful, and the Rothschild plates are so gorgeous! very inviting, thanks for this great party!!
xxx
Kit
What a cute story. Only a Baroness can come up with provenance like that.
What a cute story. Only a Baroness can come up with provenance like that.
What a cute story. Only a Baroness can come up with provenance like that.
This is absolutely gorgeous Susan, one of my very favourites.
Love love love the birdsnest and the plates.
xx Coty
Susan-I love that "shadow" picture! I'm hooked on Herend too and would love to own blue and white Chinese Bouquet salad plates.
Susan the bird plates are so unique and detailed. Love them! Everything is truly gorgeous.
I'm definitly ready for Spring and your table is pefect for it!
~Blessings, ~Melissa 🙂
Susan, I adore your flatware and love that you mixed it up. It's just stunning…the whole table!
Hi Susan!
I swear I could feel the warm sun shining through to the porch. Wonderful photos. Your collection of the 6 Herend salad plates are just stunning. And I so love to learn the History behind dishes. I think that is one of the most awesome things about blogging and meeting new blogging friends. You can learn so much!
Thank you for hosting.
I love the tablescape so much, I don't mind if the outside is not green, being from Ca.we don't have such a time (sorry), I loved the pic of the snow, so pretty…anyway I love those chargers, I tried to get them the other day, out of stock, oh well…If you have time, please stop by my blog and go to the picture of tina at the computer, the second picture down on the sidebar, click on that picture and you will see the cats blog where she is in love with your Max, I think you will love it…Let me know what you think…Phyllis
I loved the story about the china. Your table really makes it look like spring is just around the corner. We can only hope!
Oh, wow…your tablescape is so beautiful. I am knew to your blog so I have alot of catching up to do. Where have I been? Thank you for leaving such a nice comment on my blog. I hope you'll come back to visit soon.
Dearest Susan,
Yay!.., I'm finally here! ~'Joy oh bliss'! Thanks so much Susan for this fabulous meme! What a delight it is each week to see the talent of your delightful creations as well as all of the other fabulous partipants!
I'm new to your blog party, "Table Scape Thursday"! I'm somewhere between delight and 'tears of joy';(because I had been told it was difficult to partake by one dear fellow bloggers); yet thankfully you give exellant instuctions, so it is not difficult!
I am already looking forward to next weeks party when I will list my name AND my blog properly!~ Oh well! He he.., Live and Learn ; (I thought you were only to list your name, and though I filled it out correctly I erased it leaving only my name,because that's what the form asked for;thinking I was mistaken.~Really, I should have known better because I list both my name and blog title on my other memes)..,
(That's what 'sleep deprivation' will do to a person every time Susan! The obvious and simple, eludes at such times!)~lol!
Oh well!..,I'm thrilled to partake and thank you so very much for the opportunity my dear lady!!
Your oh-so-fresh 'Spring green' tablescape post this week is stunning!
Cheers and Hugs from Wanda Lee @ The Plumed Pen
Just lovely as always!!! That birdhouse is soooo cute. Of course, I like the bunny too.
I think I am now obsessed with that Rothschild china….
I freakin' LOVE bird motifs although have very few things with birds on them…isn't that odd?? LOL
Susan, I don't own any of the Rothschild Bird china, but I wish I did. I love the story of this pattern. Have you ever been to the Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa in Cap-Ferrat? It is an enchanting spot. Like you, the plates with the green border are my favorite. But using the cabbage plate beneath is a wonderful alternative. I adore everything about this table on your warm February day.
BEAUTIFUL Spring green table!!!
Lovely table, Susan! Those plates are gorgeous, and the story behind them makes them even better. Especially like that they put the bees, etc. on the backside. Anything with Herend on the back, is usually good to me. Also, love the green stemware and your silverware in this post. I didn't even notice that the plates have no colored edge. Like the majolica looking cabbage leaf plates also.
Oh my goodness, Susan! I thought my dishaholism was beginning to subside. Well, it's back now … in full force! Once we've been exposed to the allure of the Herend bird pattern … how are we supposed to go back to living with ordinary dishes???
Your delightful table, paired with the gorgeous photography, make this post rank among your finest to date. Contratulations on having created a table to remember! Thank you for sharing this delightful eye candy, your genuine warmth, and your unique brand of humor. AND … for taking us back to the world's most inspiringly beautiful porch. You've made us feel that spring has arrived … a little early this year! Thank you!
Bill
What a wonderful to welcome the spring.
Million thanks for sharing the meme.
Hi Susan. Beautiful, as always! I,too,love birds, whether they're alive or part of the decor! 🙂
Love your blog. This table setting is amazing. Thanks so much. Lia
oo i love all this fabulous rich green!!! & your cat, i wish i had a cat!!! so much beauty!!! have a lovely Tablescape Thursday!!!
Your table was beautiful and it looked so wonderful outside with the sun shining!
I think my table might be the only Seussical this week. It was fun to put together.
Hi Susan! As usual, your setting is just lovely! Do you know why the painters at Herend took the time to decorate the back of the plates? It is so whoever washes the dishes has something pretty to look at when they turn the plate over to wash and dry. Thank you for giving us all the opportunity to link up to your blog.
Love,
Susan and Bentley
xxoo
I think I just became obsessed with a set of china! This one. That is absolutely gorgeous, and I love the story behind it. It's so nice to be back out on your pretty porch for a meal. And what perfect china for dining while you watch the birds. The goblets are so pretty too. Another extrodinary tablescape! laurie
Thanks ever so much sweet Susan for being such a kind, attentive and welcoming hostess!..,
I so appreciated your kind and thoughtful gesture of assisting me as a 'newbie' at 'Tablescape Thursday', with adding my 'blog name' listing, and so very quickly at that!~
My husband; (who is a web developer), was visiting me in my home office when I exclaimed aloud with gratitude, saying:..,"Look honey, this dear lady has this beautiful and fabulously successful blog and she's so sweetly taking the time from her busy day to help me out!..,
..,And so quickly and cheerfully amongst the throngs of other folks , and of course she really doesn't have to!"..,
~He was duely impressed I must say Susan, and he agreed that it was delightfully unexpected!.., And if I may say, furthermore; therefore impressive! Kudos to you!
I have had such a joyful and thoroughly enjoyable experience partaking this week!~ Your encouraging comments are much appreciated also Susan!
I'm delighted that you became a follower and I shall greatly look forward to next weeks delights!
Cheers and hugs from Wanda Lee @ The Plumed Pen
Susan,
This is beautiful! Love the bunny, dishes and flatware. We all need some spring!
So beautiful and refeshing! Makes me excited about Spring approaching us! Love your style girl! Be blessed. Cindy
Gorgeous setting! Love the birdies.. and the green is perfect for this month. I am always in awe of all the lovely tablescapes I see.. and your's is no exception!
Blessings!
Gwen
i love all your tablescapes! I'm curious, do you set the tables as a hobby, use them for family dinner or do you entertain a lot?
I love your green dishes. So pretty and 'happy'. I could sure use some sunshine in my life. This has been a LONG winter for me and seeing your happy table makes me want spring to hurry up and get here. 🙂
Love your Easter / spring tablescape. I always enjoy coming here on Thursday's to see what kind of beautiful table you've set. Hugs, Debbie
In 2002, my husband and I lived in England and took frequent business trips to Budapest. Since Herend is manufactured in Hungary, the china was featured in many shops. I purchased four Rothchild demitasse and saucers for $75 each with the currency exchange rate at an antique shop and they are my "special" cups. All the Herend china patterns are gorgeous so it is hard to choose the most beautiful, but the birds and little bugs did it for me.
Susan, your post is terrific. I happen to be showing a china that I fell hook….line…and sinker for too. Love every single aspect of your tablescape today and only have 1 question…where is the necklace on your table….you'll have to sneak it into the scene next time. Dish Love!!!
Ahhh, a table filled with birds, and even a bird's nest… How delicious! Thank you Susan for all the fun….
cielo
What a lovely spring table…now if spring would just make an appearance!
I can see why you would lust after those salad plates, they are beautiful sitting atop the cabbage leaf plate. Cute flatware, too.
Susan,
This is one of my favorite tables! Won't it be even prettier when the grass outside is green? I am waiting for spring!
Blessings…
Susan! I have been waiting for you to do a Herend table! My mother had the Rothschild birds when I was growing up, and I have always been a fan. I am slowly building my own Herend collection, beginning my Queen Victoria salad plates (in blue, green, and pink borders) that I plan to use for my Easter table this year. When I want to be "edgy," I also have a set of Chinese Bouquet dinner plates in black. I use the Golden Edge chargers and dinner plates as backdrops for the patterned smaller pieces, and it makes for endless combination possibilities. I LOVE the leaf dinner plates behind the birds. Your beautiful table has inspired me to post a Herend table for my next Tablescape Thursday! Thanks for the wonderful breath of fresh SPRING air!
Your tablescape and pictures DO make me feel "Happy to be Alive"!! I love the feeling of the warmth of the sun in late winter and how it makes you anticipate spring all the more – You have captured that feeling totally! Those birdie plates are fabulous and what a wonderful story that goes with them! Love all the shades of green you've used as well. The cabbage plates are a perfect backdrop to the birdie ones! FABULOUS as always, Susan!
DD
Susan, this is adorable, and sets me in the mood for Spring! I saw some birdhouse s&p shakers at Pottery Barn yesterday that you might want to check out. They would be so cute on this table.
Thank you for hosting, I have not participated in a while due to business, but I had a special inspiration for this week. Please visit if you have a chance!
bye now!
Dana
Susan, this has to be one of my favorite tables of all time! The china plates are to die for!! You always do such a wonderful job with your tables! Thanks for sharing.
~Holly
Hi Susan,
I can see why you love these dishes. Not only are they darling but the story behind them is charming as well. Beautiful table as usual, you are the best.
Hi susan,
Thanks for hosting Tablescape Thursday! As always your table was just lovely and liked the lil story you had going with it. Your kitty is gorgeous too! I am so late joining in today cause I was have computer issues, but finally!! lol
Hope you have a good day hon.
Lovely spring settings, cute lil
birdies for sure.
Blessings, Nellie
I think we are all looking forward to the sweet sounds of birds singing in our midst. Your table was beautiful as usual. I am not obsessed with any particular pattern at the moment, but that could change any day! Thanks for all your inspiration!
Your Rothschild salad plates are beautiful! I also love the cabbage leaf plates, so pretty. But, I would love to have that flatware, so adorable. Such a beautiful table as always. Don't you love the sun staying out a bit longer each day?
Your photography is lovely. I have enjoyed looking at your dishes, glassware and your clever mix of silverware! You have created a perfect garden setting!
Mary
from Virginia
Susan, those plates are gorgeous! My sister-in-law has a set and I have always loved them. What a beautiful table scape! Hello Spring!
Susan, this table is gorgeous! It makes me want to come have dinner with you on that porch. I like it without the sheers up! Thanks so much for hosting a place for us all to look forward to coming to on Thursdays especially. Sandy
Dear Susan,
This table is magnificent! Henrend dishes are so beautiful, with their delicate paintings and translucent porcelain–and I think you have done a wonderful job of putting them together with the green plates and the bird glasses! The bird house is the perfect centerpiece and the fat little birdies on the table are adorable! I am so inspired by your tables.
Linda
Oh Susan! Those are BEAUTIFUL salad plates!! I can see why you are obsessed! I actually prefer the plain white border to the green border. They are just perfect with the little bugs all around the border.
My current dish obsession is Chelsea Toile by Queen's China. I found it in blue and white and pink and white. I am collecting the blue and white and have not found enough of it to complete the set. I found some of it at TJ Maxx on clearance and now it all seems to be gone. If anyone finds it anywhere I would love to know!
Thanks for hosting TT each week. I am loving it!
Now i just wait so the birds will come outside also – I can almost hear them now… MB
Ps. Me again I have now table but if you want to see some birds out side it is here –
http://mariaberg-foto.blogspot.com/2010/03/kanada-gass.html
MB
Hi Susan,
Love this post and great idea about just buying salad plates. There are so many patterns I love but can't justify the money. I am going to try you great idea. Your table looks lovely as usual. I am having my first ever blog party next Friday on books. I signed up for Linky thing. I am a little anxious about everything running smoothly. I hope you can stop by.
Hugs,
Carey
love it. Makes me very ready for Spring.
No wonder you are obsessed those plates are beautiful and the story is charming! I love that you paired them with less expensive items. I sometimes buy just the bread and butter plates to use as an accent. And since they are smaller than the lunch plates, less expensive. Thanks for sharing, Laura
While on a virtual tour on Google, I came across your blog by accident…and just had to stop and express my gratitude and pride after I seen the pictures and read the comments.
I am from Herend, and I was working in that Porcelain Factory back in the 1970’s. Herend is a small town, population cca. 3000, but because of the beautiful porcelain produced there in the last almost 200 yrs it is one of the most famous places in the fine art world. I am very happy to see the RO plates in such a beautiful table setting and also to read the compliments…. Please accept my heartfelt thank you.
Thanks so much, Erika! It really is a beautiful pattern! How wonderful you were able to work there and see it being made…each one is a work of art, for sure!