Review of Pfaltzgraff Circle of Kindness The Shanagary 5-Quart Irish Stew Pot

I was nervous about ordering this collection, as there were no reviews on Amazon nor could I find one anywhere on the web. They weren't available at any nearby store, so I couldn't see them in person. However, after several weeks hemming & hawing, I finally took the plunge. I am 110% glad that I did.

The colors are actually well represented in the photo (at least, they are on my monitor). The background is ivory. The design is a mossy green and a heather purple. I own many Chantal items in "garden green" and was hoping that these dishes would match them. For what it's worth, they go together very well.

Although I've not had these long enough to truly address durability, they are stoneware and appear to be extremely tough. Unlike ceramic dinnerware, these should be able to take quite a bit of abuse without chipping.

I ended up buying 8 place settings as well as many other pieces in this collection. They are all very charming as well as useful. The "cottage" plates and platter are quite impressive with their unusual shape and cutaway design on the edges. The little lamb vase is adorable and mine currently holds a half dozen roses. The "Irish stew pot" is large and will be wonderful for stews and soups when the winter rolls around again. The butterdish is also adorable, as are the storage containers shaped like cottages.

I should finally note that these pieces aren't "overly precious." I prefer a "bungalow style" ... e.g. relatively simple designs made of quality materials. I would have gone with something in a solid ivory, green, or gold if this wonderful collection hadn't captured my imagination. Although it's a matter of personal taste, it seems to me that there's a fine line between kitsch and charm. This collection represents a rare combination of charm, simplicity, and everyday usefulness.

Product Description
Inspired by the book of the same name by Jana Kolpen and Mary Tiegreen, Circle of Kindness brings the gently and welcoming spirit of the Irish countryside to your table.Based on the Aesop's quote, "No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted", the book plays out the humanitarian premise that one good deed begets another to create a "circle of kindness".Each piece of this collection expresses the magic of the simple, giving way of life. This stew pot is especially versatile during fall & winter.You can serve piping hot soups and stews, as well as spiced cider or chilled punch.

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