M&Z Austria Porcelain Hair Receiver, c.1910

Story

Edwardian women saved the hair from their brushes in these delicate tabletop jars to construct 'rats'—hidden padding used to create the era's iconic, voluminous Gibson Girl hairstyles. This specific piece bridged the gap between Victorian sentimentality and modern geometric design.

Maker / Origin

The Moritz Zdekauer (M&Z) porcelain factory was established in Altrohlau, Bohemia (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire) and became famous for exporting high-quality, translucent tablewares and vanity items to the West. The green 'M&Z Austria' mark with the eagle crest was used specifically between 1884 and 1909, cementing its turn-of-the-century heritage.

Condition & Value

The porcelain body appears intact with no visible cracks, though there is some expected wear and darkening on the unglazed foot rim. The gold gilding on the lid shows minor rubbing consistent with age and use, which is typical for vanity items of this era. Excellent preservation of the lid adds to its value.