Winning pitcher
The organic Francisco design of this handmade pottery pitcher from Portugal blends rustic and contemporary in a way that echoes the casual style of a country farmhouse. Designed by Simon Pearce, in earthtones of pumpkin, vine, berry and blossom.
Francisco Pitcher, $65. At Simon Pearce, 1333 Lenape Rd., West Chester; 610-793-0949; 27 Palmer Square West, Princeton, 609-279-0444; or visit www.simonpearce.com. - M.M.
Sterling steel
We may be generations past any thoughts of polishing silver, but a sleek mirror finish still has appeal.
Give the best of both worlds - Old World elegance and modern ease of care - with a set of classically styled yet eminently practical stainless steel serving trays, one rectangular (17-by-12-inch) and one oval (16-by-10-inch).
All-Clad Entertaining Trays, set of two, $100. At Foster's Homeware, 399 Market St., 215-925-0950, 800-734-8511 or www.shopfosters.com. - M.M.
A caring kitchen
Scented shea butter soaps spice up the kitchen with aromas of cinnamon-clove, rosewood, verbena and more.
Free of animal by-products, petroleum and wax, they are made the old-fashioned way: stirred, poured, cut and hand-wrapped in vintage wallpaper by Brickhouse Soap and Deweyhoward Paper.
Shea Butter Soap, 8-ounce bar, $14. At Open House, 107 S. 13th St.; 215-922-1415. - M.M.
Classic copper
Ruffoni heavy-gauge copper cookware is handcrafted - turned, hammered, tinned and polished - by artisans in the Italian Alps. Made to serve generations, each heirloom-quality piece has a thick tin lining and riveted brass handles. Ideal for soup, stock, and other slow-cooked foods.
