This is a beautiful pitcher but, alas, the paint on the handle and some holly deco came off on first hand washing. I bought it at a store several Christmas's ago at half price. Didn't think to look at the review since I've never had a problem with any of my Winterberry set. I do still use it but wash it in warm not hot water. Now that I've read other reviews, I'm afraid to use it again because the handle might snap off.