Johnson Bros "Willow"

Johnson Brothers Willow is the company’s interpretation of one of the best-known designs in British tableware history. The Willow Pattern has been produced by many potteries over the years, but the Johnson Brothers version is a classic blue and white transferware design with strong traditional appeal.

As with any true Willow Pattern, the design includes the familiar features often remembered through the traditional rhyme:

Two little birdies flying high
a little vessel passing by
a weeping willow hanging o'er
a bridge with three men, if not four.
a Chinese castle there it stands
as if the Lord of many lands,
a tree with many apples on,
and a fence at the bottom to end my song.

For customers looking to replace a dinner plate, add extra bowls, find cups and saucers, or build up a larger service, Johnson Brothers Willow remains a very practical discontinued pattern. Because Willow designs were made by numerous manufacturers, it is especially important to check the Johnson Brothers backstamp, shape, size and shade of blue when matching pieces.

We have written more about the wider history and appeal of this famous design in our Willow Pattern article. As with all discontinued tableware, availability varies by piece, so please check our current stock regularly if you are trying to complete, extend or carefully match an existing Johnson Brothers Willow service.