Not Your Grandmother's Chamber Set

I would love to have the big farmhouse to go with the washroom that would be ideal for this set. I have lived without running water in the house, so I even know how to go about using it if I had to! In some romantic mountain cabin, perhaps. . . . But chamber sets, which were stationed mostly in bedrooms, just aren't put to use that way anymore.

A big water jug came with an ample basin for washing up. But there are still lots of ways to show off a large bowl now. Even useful ones!

The floral decoration on this set is from an applique design added after firing the glaze. It can wear off from years of use or hard cleaning, as the gold trim often does. You can tell the difference from transferware, in which the design is fired on under the glaze, by running your fingers along the design to feel the applique. This group of pieces from the mid 1800's is still quite fresh looking after all this time.

The second, smaller jug was used for hot water to mix with the cold from the larger one. There would have been a taller, lidded vessel in which to drain the water after use. You really can do a lot of washing with a gallon of water!

It's rare to find this many pieces from the same set these days unless you inherit them. They look beautiful simply displayed together.

But you might still use this piece for toothbrushes if you like (its original use), or for flowers. 

A shaving mug becomes a spooner, or perhaps a place to stow used teabags at a tea party (an issue with which our refined ancesters did not have to deal).

Our grandparents would all be shocked to see what's done these days!

Now I wonder how I can go about getting that big farmhouse. . . (smile)

Thanks so much for stopping by!

 It always just makes my day!

Jacqueline

Join me at

French Country Cottage~Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground~Be Inspired

The Charm of Home~Home Sweet Home

My Romantic Home~Show & Tell

Savvy Southern Style~Wow Us Wednesday