Vintage Red and White Enamelware Bowl circa 1940s
{HISTORY}
Enamelware was most popular in the United States between the 1870s and the 1930s when durability and the perception of cleanliness were the ultimate concerns as far as useful kitchen equipment. Unlike delicate china dishware, enamelware could withstand rough handling and long journeys - exciting features as Americans migrated west to homestead via covered wagons. By the 1920s, focus on sanitary kitchens shed favor on enamelware since its bright white color and easy-to-clean design promoted bright clean kitchens. But by the 1930s, with the introduction of ceramic cookware, ovenware and clear glass dishes, enamelware began to fall out of popularity as these new innovative products took over the market.
This vintage enamelware bowl features a white body with a colorful red stripe around the rim complete with a punch hole for hanging. Available in a variety of assorted rim colors from red to green to orange to pink, the most popular colors in this design were pieces made with red, blue and black rims. This bowl does not contain a makers mark or manufacturing date, not an uncommon occurrence since most enamelware was valued as an inexpensive alternative to fine porcelain and china dishware.
Now prized for their rustic charm and shabby chic farmhouse style character, vintage enamelware serves all sorts of purposes from decorative to functional. Fun uses include fruit bowls, plant holders, pantry storage, cleaning tubs, kitchen organization and table centerpiece display.
{SPECIAL FEATURES}
- Classic red and white color combination transitions well throughout each season
- Functional size
- Punch hole in rim for easy hanging
- Unmarked
{CONDITION}
In great shape, this vintage enamelware bears just one chip one on the rim - the perfect amount of authentic aging to give it some shabby chic character. Such chips are common on most vintage enamelware as these darlings were true workhorses of kitchens past. Please see photos.
{SIZE}
Measures 12.25" inches in diameter x 3" inches height and weighs 14 oz.
{STYLE IDEA}
As we come into the holiday season, incorporate this beauty into your holiday decorations as a holder for brightly colored ornaments, Christmas cards or holiday greenery.