November Flea Market: The 1950s Dinnerware Brand Collectors Love — Here’s the Logo to Spot
Thrift hunters and collectors enjoy strolling through flea markets and other rummage sales, in search of vintage items. According to an article on Chowhound.com, a 1950s dinnerware brand is currently making waves.
A 1950s Dinnerware That Is Highly Popular Among Collectors
Have you ever heard of the American artist Russel Wright? A true figure of mid-century modernism from the 1930s to the 1950s, he designed a distinctive dinnerware collection called “American Modern.” Aesthetically pleasing, simple, and practical, it attracts today many fans of retro decor who are seeking authentic pieces for their homes.
Russel Wright’s creations in glazed earthenware offer soft shapes and clean lines. Their colors (sand beige, moss green, mist blue, or powdery pink) also create a striking look in our kitchens. Less flashy than the porcelain pieces of the era, this dinnerware is, as the name suggests, more modern—yet also warmer.
A Logo to Look For on This Dinnerware
“American Modern” enjoyed huge success in the United States, becoming the best-selling dinnerware collection between 1939 and 1959. After the war, it established itself in many homes. Its real strength was that it allowed colors to be combined according to our preferences, a concept totally innovative at the time, which is still echoed today by brands like Le Creuset.
But then, how can you tell if you own an original piece from this collection? Well, if a mark stamped “Russel Wright” appears under your dish, you could fetch several hundred euros on resale platforms. Often, this logo is accompanied by the mention “Steubenville,” the name of the manufacturer that produced this collection.
Vintage Designs Are Growing More Popular
Nowadays, mid-20th-century designs, particularly from the 1950s, are making a comeback. Wright’s pieces have achieved something of a cult status for some collectors, who appreciate their sturdiness and their distinctive style. Their various pieces are also versatile—a bowl can become a cup, and a dish can go from the oven to the table with ease.
Whether at flea markets or online, collectors are on the lookout for this vintage-charmed dinnerware. If you happen to come across one of these pieces yourself, know that you may own a item of considerable value, which vintage-decor enthusiasts will be eager to snap up.
