September 2, 2009 Words, Images Judith Ecochard “Casual” is a relative term… When we previewed the imaginative tableware from the twenty years old establishment HOME, JAMES! ...we initially thought, “… to the manor born .” Very transporting. BECAUSE, the design patterns of the china/place settings are stunning…and inspired from historic times. The aristocratic flavor of our favorite “CHINATOWN ” ---had our brains cells all fired up as we were reminded of some of the glorious Chinese porcelains right at the top of the sweeping staircase of the Met (…tropolitan Museum of Art). Whimsical, colorful and delicate impressions (like latticed porcelain)--- but sturdy enough for everyday use- and that perks up the blah white dish set we already own. ADDED PLUS: The china and glassware have enough heft , but are ‘sized’ for Americans- not some idolized version of Euro nobility. Meaning real coffee cups/mugs, not dainty teacups. ($100 for set of four CHINATOWN with fab Bamboo stalks' handles...