XII 



AUGUST 



USEFUL FLOWER-JARS 



In few things could the average American home be so 

 greatly benefited by a httle 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 ihust 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 



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