The Enchanting Tradition Of Crate & Barrel’s 12 Days Of Christmas Plates: A Festive Journey Through Time

The Enchanting Tradition of Crate & Barrel’s 12 Days of Christmas Plates: A Festive Journey Through Time

The Enchanting Tradition of Crate & Barrel’s 12 Days of Christmas Plates: A Festive Journey Through Time

Introduction

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The Enchanting Tradition of Crate & Barrel’s 12 Days of Christmas Plates: A Festive Journey Through Time

As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with anticipation and the countdown to Christmas begins. For many, the festive spirit is incomplete without the iconic Crate & Barrel 12 Days of Christmas plates, a cherished tradition that has adorned dinner tables for generations.

A Festive Feast for the Eyes and the Soul

The 12 Days of Christmas plates are a series of 12 exquisitely designed plates, each depicting a different verse from the beloved Christmas carol. From the "partridge in a pear tree" to the "twelve drummers drumming," these plates capture the magic and wonder of the holiday season in vibrant hues and intricate details.

A Timeless Tradition Rooted in History

The tradition of the 12 Days of Christmas plates dates back to the 19th century. In 1822, a London publisher named William Hone created a children’s book titled "The Real History of Tom Thumb." The book featured a series of illustrations by George Cruikshank, depicting the 12 days of Christmas gifts.

Inspired by these illustrations, a potter named Thomas Forester produced a set of 12 plates in 1880. These plates were an instant success and quickly became a holiday staple in homes across England.

Crate & Barrel’s Enduring Legacy

In 1967, Crate & Barrel introduced its own line of 12 Days of Christmas plates, designed by renowned artist Susan Winget. These plates featured a modern and whimsical interpretation of the traditional verses, capturing the spirit of the holiday season with a touch of contemporary flair.

Over the years, Crate & Barrel’s 12 Days of Christmas plates have become synonymous with the holiday season. Each year, the company releases a new set of plates, designed by talented artists from around the world.

A Canvas for Artistic Expression

The 12 Days of Christmas plates have provided a unique platform for artists to showcase their creativity and share their interpretations of the holiday. From traditional motifs to abstract designs, each plate is a work of art that reflects the artist’s unique style and vision.

Some notable artists who have contributed to the 12 Days of Christmas plate collection include:

• Susan Winget (1967-1988)
• Christopher Radko (1989-1995)
• Michael Aram (1996-2002)
• Vietri (2003-2009)
• Kate Spade (2010-2016)
• Rifle Paper Co. (2017-2023)

Collecting the 12 Days of Christmas Plates

For many collectors, the 12 Days of Christmas plates are more than just dinnerware; they are cherished keepsakes that evoke fond memories and connect families across generations.

Collecting the plates has become a beloved tradition, with collectors eagerly anticipating the release of each new set. Some collectors display their plates as a festive centerpiece during the holiday season, while others carefully store them away to pass down to future generations.

A Symbol of Love, Joy, and Tradition

The Crate & Barrel 12 Days of Christmas plates have become an enduring symbol of the holiday season. They represent the joy, love, and tradition that make this time of year so special.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new admirer of these iconic plates, the 12 Days of Christmas plates are a timeless treasure that will bring a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations for years to come.

A Detailed Journey Through the 12 Plates

Each plate in the 12 Days of Christmas collection depicts a different verse from the beloved carol. Here is a closer look at each plate:

1. A Partridge in a Pear Tree

The first plate features a single partridge perched on a branch of a pear tree, surrounded by a wreath of holly and berries.

2. Two Turtle Doves

Two turtle doves are depicted on the second plate, cooing sweetly to each other. The plate is adorned with a delicate pattern of hearts and flowers.

3. Three French Hens

Three plump hens stand proudly on the third plate, their feathers ruffled in a playful dance. The plate is decorated with a charming farmhouse scene.

4. Four Calling Birds

Four calling birds perch on a branch in the fourth plate, their beaks open in a melodious song. The plate is surrounded by a vibrant border of winter foliage.

5. Five Golden Rings

Five interlocking golden rings form the centerpiece of the fifth plate, symbolizing the love and unity of the holiday season. The plate is adorned with a festive wreath of pine cones and berries.

6. Six Geese A-Laying

Six plump geese are depicted on the sixth plate, their feathers gleaming in the winter sunlight. The plate is decorated with a snowy landscape and a cozy cottage in the background.

7. Seven Swans A-Swimming

Seven elegant swans glide gracefully through the water in the seventh plate. The plate is adorned with a shimmering blue border and delicate snowflakes.

8. Eight Maids A-Milking

Eight maids are depicted on the eighth plate, their faces rosy from the cold. They are surrounded by a flock of sheep and a quaint barn.

9. Nine Ladies Dancing

Nine ladies dance merrily on the ninth plate, their skirts swirling in a graceful waltz. The plate is decorated with a festive border of poinsettias and holly.

10. Ten Lords A-Leaping

Ten lords leap with joy on the tenth plate, their cloaks flowing in the wind. The plate is adorned with a medieval castle and a snowy landscape.

11. Eleven Pipers Piping

Eleven pipers play their pipes with gusto on the eleventh plate. The plate is decorated with a festive border of musical instruments and Christmas greenery.

12. Twelve Drummers Drumming

Twelve drummers march in formation on the twelfth plate, their drums beating a rhythmic tune. The plate is adorned with a festive border of stars and snowflakes, symbolizing the culmination of the 12 Days of Christmas.

Conclusion

The Crate & Barrel 12 Days of Christmas plates are more than just dinnerware; they are cherished keepsakes that evoke fond memories and connect families across generations. They are a timeless treasure that will bring a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations for years to come.

Closure

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