Fortnum & Mason Floral Jar, c.1960s-80s

Price: £45

Dimensions: Height 17 cm, Length 15 cm, Depth 8 cm (6.7 in x 5.9 in x 3.1 in)

A wonderfully cheerful vintage Fortnum & Mason floral china jar, dating from the mid-to-late 20th century, most likely c.1960s–1980s. Originally made to hold a generous 16 oz of something delicious, its soft white ground is scattered with a spirited garden of yellow, purple, green and blue flowers, all picked out in fine botanical-style outlines.

The original Fortnum & Mason 16 oz label remains on the base, a charming reminder of its former life in the food hall. Fortnum’s longstanding tradition of beautifully presented provisions makes these useful china vessels especially lovely things to keep and repurpose.

We are using ours as the most glamorous tissue dispenser imaginable: simply tuck a small stack of tissues inside and pull one neatly through the lid opening. Marvellous on a bedside table, desk or loo shelf, and rather more charming than a cardboard box.