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SET THE TABLE FOR CHINESE NEW YEAR
The Lunar New Year is abundant with numerous traditions and customs. One such tradition and arguably the most important is the reunion dinner. Held on the eve of the new year this is a special time when generations of the family will come together to eat drink and be merry. A perfect time to bring out the best tableware and create a beautiful dining table setting.
PREPARATIONS
Before the Reunion dinner takes place there are many preparations. A thorough cleaning of the house must be done well before the 15 days of the New Year Festivities to ensure you do not ‘sweep away’ the good luck and fortune that has been bestowed upon your household.
Homes are decorated with traditional lanterns and calligraphy posters of blessings, health, prosperity, or spring couplets which are placed by the doorway. Pots of kumquat and flowers are also used to create a festive atmosphere and brighten up the home.
The Past Perfect Collection’s shop window decorated for Chinese New Year
SETTING THE PERFECT DINING TABLE
First the dining table itself, it is customary to host the reunion dinner at a round table. Round tables not only make it easy for everyone to converse and see each other, there is a deeper significance in the shape of the circle itself. Circles are an important motif in Chinese culture, they signify unity and harmony and in terms of Feng Shui, the circle is associated with unity, perfection and completeness.
To add an additional festive touch to your dining table setting use a red tablecloth and then add prosperous colours such as red and gold in the form of napkins and napkin holders or gold bowls and salad servers. Using the best tableware adds to the sense of occasion, fine bone china plates and sparkling glassware will set the scene and impress family and friends.
British colonial mahogany round table.
© The Past Perfect Collection
The superb top is hinged to the central pillar in such a way that it can be turned from a horizontal to a vertical position and, thereby, when not in use, take up less space.
FINISHING TOUCHES
A centrepiece featuring lucky plants like pussy willows, lucky bamboo, peach or plum blossom and fruit such as oranges and tangerines will give the table an added dramatic flourish.
For such an important occasion an antique dining table, in particular a round antique dining table, would surely be an impressive addition to the reunion dinner and provide a place to hold many celebrations with family and friends for years to come.
We have a great choice of antique dining tables at The Past Perfect Collection. View our latest selection of dining tables here.
THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON
Represented by the only mythical - and the most powerful - creature of the 12-animal Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Dragon is considered special.The legendary magical beast is symbolic of autority, honor and dignity, particularly in China, where is has represented imperial power since ancient times.
As the luckiest and most auspicious of the 12 animals, the dragon is thought to signify unprecedented opportunities. In a dragon year, people are said to be able to harnass the creature's intelligence, leadership and abilities to pursue their dreams with creativity, passion, courage and confidenc.
Happy Chinese New Year!
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