XII 

 AUGUST 



USEFUL FLOWER-JARS 



In few things could the average American home be so 

 greatly benefited by a little careful attention as in the choice 

 of receptacles for displaying cut flowers. When we arrange 

 such blossoms in a jar we are making a picture in which the 

 receptacle, the leaves, and the flowers form the materials of 

 expression. The effectiveness of such a picture is governed 

 by laws of harmony just as much as is the effectiveness of a 

 drawing in black and white or a painting in colors; and, as 

 a rule, the most important requirement is to have a really 

 artistic receptacle to begin with. 



The first requirement of a vase or jar for flowers is that it 

 shall be in harmony with its purpose. In form, in color, in 

 decoration it must serve as a fitting receptacle for objects 

 which in themselves are to be the chief centre of attraction. 

 Flowers are infinitely varied in their shapes and colors, and 

 flower- jars which shall be appropriate for holding different 

 kinds must be simple in form and coloring. 



During the last few years there has been a wonderful ad- 

 vance in the character of the receptacles for flowers offered 

 for sale in our shops. Several notable pottery establish- 

 ments have produced wares which serve their purpose ad- 

 mirably, and have put them upon the market at prices which 

 bring them within the reach of people of moderate means. 



Consequently, there is less and less excuse for buying the 



227 



