willow pattern

American  

noun

1. a decorative design in English ceramics, depicting chiefly a willow tree, small bridge, and two birds, derived from Chinese sources and introduced in approximately 1780: often executed in blue and white but sometimes in red and white.

---

willow pattern British  

noun

1. 1. a pattern incorporating a willow tree, river, bridge, and figures, typically in blue on a white ground, used on pottery and porcelain

   2. ( as modifier )

      a willow-pattern plate

---

Etymology

Origin of willow pattern

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

The picture is called the willow pattern not only because it is a tale of disastrous love, but because the elopement occurred when the willow begins to shed its leaves.

From From John O'Groats to Land's End by Naylor, Robert

The table is set with the old-fashioned willow pattern china, quaint Sheffield silver and is unmarked by any of the small dishes of sweets that fill breakfast tables.

From Breakfasts and Teas Novel Suggestions for Social Occasions by Pierce, Paul

In the little dining-room, conscientiously “quaint” with its spotted crockery dogs and corner cupboard shining with willow pattern tea-cups, Milly shut the door and turned on her friend.

From Man and Maid by Nesbit, E. (Edith)

The blue willow pattern stoneware cups and the blue and white Japanese ware are very suitable for this purpose.

From Science in the Kitchen. by Kellogg, Mrs. E. E.

Now it is with no intention of directing the public eye to the "willow pattern," that I have alluded to this circumstance.

From Nuts and Nutcrackers by Lever, Charles James