Not as Intended #2

Welcome back to my series, where I share vintage pieces that might not be used as originally intended, but work just as well (if not better) in new ways around the home.

The items we’ll be looking at today are Oyster and Fish plates!

At this point, I haven’t met an oyster or fish plate I didn’t like. One of my most collected items, they truly come in every shape, size and colour. They’re usually found in abundance throughout France and were originally sold as large sets, often with an even larger serving plate to match. The fish sets usually come with matching bowls, sauce servers, and a giant fish serving plate.

They’re also a great example of how vintage can be used today without needing the full giant set - just one or two displayed on a shelf, hung on a wall, or brought out for your next dinner party.

Again, with a pretty obvious original use, I’ve seen both plates styled in so many different ways. I’ve met people who have created fish plate walls in their bathrooms, used oyster plates for nibbles at dinner parties, and even seen the lovely Raye Makes Things display jewellery in each oyster divot at a market.

In the era of mix-and-match table settings, collecting a fish plate on your travels, visits to flea markets, and charity shops could leave you with the most interesting ceramic collection - one you’ll be eager to bring out the next time you host.

These plates were made by some of the most famous ceramic houses in France, from Sarreguemines to Vallauris and even Longchamp. Beautifully made, they’ve truly stood the test of time.

With that, I’m going to leave you with the best use of a fish plate a customer has ever sent me.

I’d love to know how you’d use one of these - always looking for new ideas.

I’ll catch you next time, for another not as intended.
Jade xoxo