Art Deco Celluloid and Pressed Glass Vanity Jars, Pair

Story

During the 1920s, the vanity table was a woman's personal sanctuary of glamour. These jars were designed to hold loose face powder and discarded hair from brushes, which was saved in the receiver to make 'rats'—pads used to stuff the voluminous hairstyles of the era.

Maker / Origin

While these jars are unsigned, they are highly characteristic of vanity sets produced by prominent early plastic manufacturers of the era, such as the Celluloid Manufacturing Company or Fiberloid. These companies transformed everyday utility items into affordable luxuries, bringing the look of expensive mother-of-pearl and ivory to the middle-class home.

Condition & Value

The celluloid lids appear remarkably flat and free of the warping, cracking, or 'celluloid rot' that often plagues early plastics. The gold stenciling shows minor wear but remains highly legible, and the glass bases appear free of major chips. Excellent preservation of these materials commands a premium.