Tablescape Thursday

Coral and Shells

Well, according to the official calendar, summer is over today. However, I can't resist sneaking in one more summer tablescape. This is one of my favorite china patterns for a summer meal: Sea Treasures by The home, James! Collection

All of the china pieces are edged and outlined with 24-kt gold, but there is no gold in the shell and coral designs, which I like. It keeps the pattern from being too precious.

One of my favorite napkin rings of all time - a polished turbo shell mounted on silver plated base, by The Turnwald Collection.

The soup bowl combines the shells of the salad/dessert plate with the coral border of the dinner plate.

This gorgeous bowl was a housewarming gift from my mother. It is made of molded glass, hand painted on the underside. Unfortunately, I don't know much else about it.

A little gift for the diner - a Chinese cinnabar box. I wonder what's inside it?

Two views of the cup and saucer. I love the little shell hidden under the cup!

Rosewood handled flatware, with silver accents, is French, from Alain Saint Joanis.

While I'm not usually one for putting a napkin on the plate, I think this arrangement works really well.

This setting practically cries out for a deep-hued vin rose from the South of France! It's color is so gorgeous in the late afternoon sun!

The hand embroidered tablecloth is also French, by Valombreuse. 

One of four different motifs embroidered on the corners of the cloth.

Detail of the hand embroidery, featuring different stitches, including French knots.

The detailing and colors are simply luscious.

Another corner of the tablecloth. The sun, shining through from the backside, emphasizes the delicate weave of the fabric.

I bought these little cinnabar boxes years ago at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. I have used them in so many settings!
(Hint: you've also seen them recently on my new living room table.)

Bon Appetit!

To view tablescapes by other bloggers, every Thursday, visit Between Naps On The Porch, where they are all linked. Enjoy!