Rosebank Theatre Presents: The Tale of the Willow Pattern Plate

In 1790, Thomas Minton designed and engraved The Willow Pattern for the Caughley porcelain factory in Shropshire, England. The design proved to be so popular that it remained in use for the next 200 years, with variations on the theme made by, amongst others, Spode, Wedgewood, Crown Devon in England and Gilman Collamore in New York.

While the elements of the design were based on Chinese porcelain imported into England in the 1700’s, the willow pattern is essentially English – as was the tragic love-story invented to promote its popularity and sales.