Preliminary identification

Pyrex 'Butterprint' Refrigerator Set, c.1957-1968

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is the iconic 'Butterprint' pattern, also known as 'Amish,' featuring a turquoise-on-white lithographed design of a farming couple, roosters, and corn stalks. These opal glass refrigerator dishes were designed to go from oven to table to fridge, representing the ultimate in post-war domestic efficiency.

Story

Launched in 1957, this pattern captured a nostalgic American yearning for rural simplicity during the Space Age. It became one of the most successful designs in Pyrex history, found in nearly every suburban kitchen.

Maker / Origin

Corning Glass Works revolutionized the kitchen by adapting low-expansion borosilicate glass—originally used for railroad lanterns—into durable cookware. Their Pyrex brand became a household name, blending industrial science with high-end graphic design.

Condition & Value

The pattern appears crisp and vibrant with no obvious 'haze' from harsh detergents. The glass lids appear to be the correct original ribbed style; any chips on the inner rim of the lids would significantly impact value. Excellent condition adds a 40% premium. Complete sets with original ribbed glass lids are highly sought after.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.