Inspirations: Eva Zeisel

Visionista #2: Eva Zeisel

Ceramic Maven, War Survivor, Professor, a Star of Budapest and the World

Let's face it, we all wish we could be amazing and have these book-worthy stories to share in our old age. I mean, "Once I made the best chocolate cake..." just doesn't seem to do anything but put the yawn on. And here we have this wonderful woman with an amazing life. 

She has traveled, created, suffered, loved, shared and inspired. 

And still does at 102!

Thanks, Mrs Zeisel! You are a true inspiration in every way!

A good read or three, Mrs Zeisel herself by the Boston Globe (by staff David L. Ryan) and from the archives (Hillwood Museum and Gardens, 1926), 

a good buy in the UK or the US.

The gravy boat makes me swoon (and I don't make gravy!) and the teapot is divine. 

We purchased a set at Crate & Barrel this year for our 10th wedding anniversary.

Now I just dream of the bookcase and coffee table (and wood floors.) I'm secretly envious of all people up north with houses full of wood floors....

A few spots to check out if you love her like I do:

Eva Zeisel on the Orange Chicken

the Eva Zeisel Forum

Eva Zeisel Originals

Ready for a Dinner Party

I've been browsing many food and style blogs and dreaming of a dinner party. Here's some delicious thoughts to take home with you:

As always, Dessert First

Roasted Apple and Vanilla Bean Souffle

from 

my new favorite

Cannelle-Vanille

Appetizer: Pizzettes with Caramelized Onions, Goat Cheese and Prosciutto from Everyday Italian. (Add a little fresh rosemary to the dough and it's phenomenal!)

Served on the Classic Century Dinnerware, designed by Eva Zeisel and sold at Crate and Barrel.

Check out the serving pieces - DIVINE!

Image thanks to www.pomegranita.com

And delicate Venetian wine glasses from Napastyle.com

For the Main Course: Coq au Vin (by Barefoot Contessa)

Served with extra roasted carrots (by Barefoot Contessa) and I don't even like carrots. Beware, these are addictive and easy to make!

ohhhhh, I am sooooo hungry! 

Bon Appetit!