The Collectors
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Friday 20 October 2006
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Lauren looks at plastic ware from the ‘50s to the ‘70s. These post World War II plastics revolutionised the home, particularly the kitchen. They were bright and colourful after the drab war years, and they were cheap, easy to use and unbreakable. Many containers were stackable, which helped to keep a kitchen neat, tidy and well organised.
Many of us still use Tupperware and remember the Tupperware parties of old, where you became acquainted with the unmistakable sound of the airtight burping seal that ensured food stayed fresher for longer. Tupperware was developed in 1945 by Earl Tupper.
The slick design of melamine, often under the trade names of Melmac and Bessemer, still suits today’s lifestyle. Although developed in the 1930s, Melamine was not used much until the 1950s. Russel Wright is one of the more well-known designers of innovative melamine table ware.
The cheaper Gayware canister sets are very collectable, but they are becoming harder to come by. Often the ones found today are cracked or otherwise damaged since the plastic is thinner and easily broken.
Serving trays of the ‘70s are also ‘back’. Divided into several parts, they are perfect for entertaining today.
Don’t lock away your beautiful plastic though. It is still as useful and stylish as it was 50 years ago. But a word of warning, it won’t survive the dishwasher, or the microwave.
Further information can be obtained from the book: Melmac Dinnerware by Gregory R. Zimmer, L W Publishing & Book Sales, 1997.
For more information on Russel Wright, he has written a book on the subject: Good Design is for Everyone – In His Own Words, published by Manitoga Inc/The Russel Wright Design Centre, 2001.
