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- From Teacups to Timelessness: The Enduring Charm of Vintage Spode Porcelain
Thereâs something quietly magical about vintage porcelain. A delicate rim, a graceful pattern, a whisper of history in every chip-free curve â itâs no wonder collectors and decorators alike fall hard for old china. And when it comes to timeless British porcelain, few names spark as much admiration as Spode. Whether youâve inherited a piece from your gran or picked up a charming plate at a car boot sale, Spode has a way of making everyday moments feel just a little bit more elegant. But whatâs behind this iconic name â and why is it still so sought after centuries later? A Brief Stroll Through Spodeâs Storied Past Spode began its journey in the 1770s in the heart of the Potteries â Stoke-on-Trent â under the careful eye of Josiah Spode I, a ceramic innovator with an eye for quality and technique. By the late 18th century, Spode had perfected two processes that would change British porcelain forever: Underglaze blue transfer printing, allowing for beautifully intricate patterns to be mass-produced without sacrificing detail or charm. Bone china refinement, creating the durable yet delicate material we now associate with fine English tableware. Through the 19th century and beyond, the Spode family (and eventually successors) continued to develop iconic designs â many of which are still beloved today. Fast forward a few centuries, and while ownership has changed hands (itâs now under Portmeirion Group), the Spode legacy lives on in every blue-and-white pastoral scene and gold-edged teacup. Why Spode Still Captivates Collectors and Creatives So, what makes Spode so irresistible? Itâs the patterns. Designs like Blue Italian, Tower, and Camilla have become instantly recognisable, with a romantic, almost storybook charm. Itâs the craftsmanship. These pieces were made to be both beautiful and practical â perfect for everything from Sunday best to casual cream teas. Itâs the history. Owning a piece of Spode is like owning a small slice of Georgian or Victorian domestic life. Itâs the versatility. Spode works just as well in modern minimalist kitchens as it does in cozy, vintage-inspired dining rooms. Whether you use it every day or keep it for special occasions, Spode manages to strike that rare balance between heritage and heart. A Piece Worth Pouring Over: Our Vintage Spode Find At Objet dâArt Stuff, weâre always on the lookout for treasures that combine history, quality, and charm. Right now, weâre pleased to offer a lovely vintage Spode dish â a beautiful example of the brandâs artistry and enduring appeal. https://www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk/product-page/vintage-spode-mementos-blue-and-white-porcelain-rectangular-dish-1984 This particular piece features part of the Mementos collection, this rectangular tray showcases a beautiful blue and white Rococo-style design, with cherubs, foliage, and ornamental hearts in a lavish transfer print. It's a wonderful standalone accent or a thoughtful gift for anyone with a love for classic English ceramics. What we love most about this piece is how it brings a touch of quiet refinement to any setting â whether it's holding trinkets on a hallway table or serving up something sweet at afternoon tea. > đż Each antique and vintage item in our collection is handpicked not only for its beauty but also for the stories it carries. The Final Pour: Why Vintage Spode is More Than Just Tableware When you buy vintage Spode, youâre not just buying a plate or a bowl â youâre welcoming a little piece of history into your home. Youâre investing in something made with care, passed down with love, and still utterly usable today. And in a world of fast everything, that kind of lasting beauty is worth celebrating. Feeling inspired? Take a peek at our Spode find â and while you're there, explore the rest of our lovingly curated vintage and antique collection. From quirky curios to timeless classics, weâve got something special just waiting for its next story. đ Browse our collection at www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk
- A Taste of History: The Legacy of Huntley & Palmers Tins
When you think of decorative biscuit tins, one name towers above the rest: Huntley & Palmers. Founded in 1822 in Reading, England, Huntley & Palmers became a household name for biscuits. They also pioneered the art of beautiful and collectible packaging. This transformed humble tins into sought-after works of art that are still collected and treasured today. The Early Days of Huntley & Palmers Huntley & Palmers began with Joseph Huntley opening a small bakery on London Street in Reading. Recognizing the growing popularity of biscuits among the traveling public, he and his son, Thomas Huntley, teamed up with George Palmer. George was an ambitious young businessman with a vision for expansion. Together, they expanded production rapidly. The company flourished during the Victorian era. Huntley & Palmers biscuits became a staple treat in Britain and beyond. Their growth was a testament to the rising demand for sweets and snacks. A Revolution in Packaging Huntley & Palmers were celebrated not only for their delicious biscuits but also for their innovative packaging. In the mid-19th century, as biscuits grew popular as gifts and keepsakes, the company revolutionized how biscuits were packaged. They commissioned elaborate, decorative tin designs that turned containers into stunning displays. These tins were designed to be proudly displayed. People reused them long after the biscuits were gone. The creativity in design was astounding. From miniature steam trains to basket shapes, and even elaborate chests and musical boxes, the tins became an early form of advertising. They spread the company's name while charming both children and adults alike. A Global Brand By the early 20th century, Huntley & Palmers had become the worldâs largest biscuit manufacturer. They exported their delicacies to over 130 countries. Their tins, with vivid lithographed designs, carried images of Empire, tradition, and innovation around the world. Some tins celebrated royal occasions, while others highlighted exotic travel or childrenâs stories. Each tin reflected the social and cultural currents of its time. They were more than just packaging; they were snapshots of history. Collecting Huntley & Palmers Tins Today In today's market, these tins have become highly collectible antiques in their own right. Their designs document everything from Victorian aesthetics to the optimism of the interwar years. They even capture wartime resilience. Collecting these tins provides fascinating insights into design trends, marketing history, and social history. They also look wonderful displayed in any home. At www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk , we are proud to offer a curated selection of vintage Huntley & Palmers tins. Each one has its own story to tell. Whether youâre an avid collector, a lover of British nostalgia, or searching for a unique decorative item, these tins bring a charming slice of history into your hands. Why Buy a Vintage Tin? Buying a Huntley & Palmers tin is more than acquiring a container; it is about preserving a piece of design history and celebrating craftsmanship. Each tin was made to be cherished. Their enduring appeal proves their creators succeeded brilliantly. Furthermore, owning one of these tins connects you to a rich history. They spark conversations, enhance your space, and serve as reminders of a time when craftsmanship was paramount. Explore Our Collection Explore our current collection of Huntley & Palmers tins here , and take home a timeless piece of biscuit-makingâand biscuit-marketingâheritage. Each tin tells a story, and by owning one, you become part of that narrative. Enjoy the beauty, history, and craftsmanship of these exquisite tins.
- From Lab Bench to Collectible: The Story Behind Our Vintage John Moncrieff Woulff Bottle
At Objet d'Art Stuff, we are always on the lookout for objects with stories â and our latest find is just that. This vintage John Moncrieff Monax Woulff bottle, complete with its original box, is more than just a beautifully preserved piece of laboratory glassware. Itâs a glimpse into the long and fascinating history of a pioneering Scottish glassworks: John Moncrieff Ltd. We were thrilled to receive a note from the companyâs current director, Scott Gilmore, who kindly confirmed some of the background and legacy behind the item. According to Scott: "This was part of a range of laboratory ware made by John Moncrieff Ltd from the 1920s up until the 1980s, although we were still making some parts up until 1995. The manufacture of the Woulff bottles was before my time, but I understand they were used for collecting and trapping gases produced during chemical reactions." A Legacy of Innovation: John Moncrieff Ltd Founded in the early 19th century and based in Perth, Scotland, John Moncrieff Ltd built a reputation for both industrial and artistic glassware. The company was at the forefront of British scientific glass production, particularly during the 20th century when the demand for laboratory equipment soared. Their Monax range â made of borosilicate glass â became a trusted name in scientific circles, known for its durability and resistance to thermal shock. Items like this Woulff bottle were everyday essentials in laboratories, used to channel and collect gases during experiments. But Moncrieff wasn't just about function â it was also about form. Collectors may better know the name Monart, a range of art glass produced by the company in collaboration with the Ysart family from the 1920s to the 1960s. Monart pieces are now highly collectible and admired for their vivid colours, swirling designs, and quality craftsmanship. From Laboratory to Living Room In the directorâs words: "After production ended in December 1995, we had a massive warehouse full of old lab ware. We sold some of this off for alternate uses â vases etc." This creative reuse is part of what makes vintage Moncrieff labware so appealing today. A Woulff bottle might once have lived under a fume hood in a busy chemistry lab â now it could grace a shelf as an industrial-chic conversation piece or quirky vase. Why Collect Moncrieff Glassware? Whether you're drawn by nostalgia, a love of vintage science, or the beauty of precision craftsmanship, pieces like this Woulff bottle capture a moment in industrial history. It's a reminder of a time when British manufacturing was booming â and when even the most utilitarian items were made to last. Explore our listing of the vintage John Moncrieff Monax Woulff Bottle here, and bring home a piece of scientific heritage.
- A Feathered Token of Resolve. The Story Behind an Edwardian Hat
Step inside the parlour of history for a momentâbreathe in the faint scent of beeswax polish, hear the ticking of an oak-cased mantel clock, and meet Miss Eleanor Godfrey, age twenty-three, as she nervously smooths the crepe cuffs of her travelling dress. A Telegram, a Train & a Turning Point On a soft May morning in 1908, Eleanorâs routine of assisting her father in his Lincolnshire bookshop was upended by a telegram from London: âDarling EleanorâstopâYour story shortlisted for Womenâs Authorial Society prizeâstopâBanqueting House reception 28 MayâstopâYou must attendâstopâAunt Beatrice .â The invitation was exhilaratingâand terrifying. Eleanor owned nothing fit for a society reception, certainly not a hat that would satisfy the elaborate etiquette of Edwardian fashion. Her best friend urged, âTake the 11:03 to Louth. Godsmark & Son always have just the thing.â Inside Godsmark & Son: Louthâs Fashion Sanctuary Crossing the threshold of 24 Market Place, Eleanor was enveloped by the warm murmur of respectful assistants and the faint rustle of silk. The draperâs shopâfounded by Alfred Godsmark in the 1880sâhad built its reputation on impeccable millinery: ostrich plumes imported from South Africa, hand-stitched by local plumassiers in a skylit workroom above the sales floor. The senior milliner, Miss Harriet Finch, sensed Eleanorâs mix of excitement and dread. âA literary soirĂŠe calls for quiet authority, Miss Godfrey,â she said, producing a striking creation: a petite black toque entirely swathed in rippling ostrich fringe. Eleanor watched her reflection bloom into confidence. The feathers caught the gas-light with a subtle sheen, echoing the intellect she hoped to project among Londonâs literati. She scarcely noticed Miss Finch wrapping the hat in tissue and lowering it into a salmon-pink, gold-lettered Godsmark & Son boxâthe very box that now rests before you. Confidence in a Cardboard Cube The following week, Eleanor arrived at Banqueting House. While celebrated authors towered in silk toppers and diamantĂŠ tiaras, a whispered admiration followed the understated plume that crowned her dark hair. When the Society chairman called her nameâsecond place, but praised for âfresh eloquenceââthe little ostrich hat bobbed as she curtseyed, winning smiles from the grandest ladies present. On the midnight train home, Eleanor tucked her prize certificate alongside the hat in its Godsmark box, convinced it had carried her through the evening with poise. Why This Hat (and Box) Deserves Its Next Chapter Authentic Edwardian Craftsmanship â Hand-stitched ostrich fringe and silk lining from a documented Lincolnshire milliner. Complete Provenance â Still protected by the original Godsmark & Son draperâs box, emblazoned with the shopâs Art-Nouveau typography. Wearable Storytelling â Each plume whispers of telegrams, railway journeys and courageous first steps onto societyâs stage. Display-Ready â Perfect for period interiors, museum exhibitions or a dramatic statement at heritage events. Bring Eleanorâs Spirit Home Owning this hat is more than acquiring a fashion relic; itâs adopting Eleanorâs quiet resolve and the craftsmanship of a provincial millinery house that helped countless women step boldly into modern life. Add this boxed Edwardian ostrich-feather hat to your collection today and let its history inspire your own chaptersâwhether displayed beneath a glass dome, worn to a vintage gala, or gifted to the next author who needs a plume of courage.
- A Walk Through Time: Royal Doultonâs âThe Village Streetâ Series Ware
Thereâs something enduringly comforting about a good cup of tea, especially when itâs poured from a teapot steeped in history. Our latest vintage find at Objet dâArt Stuff â a charming Royal Doulton Series Ware teapot from the 1920s â is a true celebration of British heritage, storytelling ceramics, and the golden age of teaware. This piece features the delightful âThe Village Streetâ  pattern, a picturesque design that captures a gentler time and invites nostalgia with every pour. The Legacy of Royal Doulton Founded in 1815 by John Doulton, the Royal Doulton company rose from humble beginnings in Lambeth, London, to become one of the most respected and recognisable names in British ceramics. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Royal Doulton had moved production to Burslem, Staffordshire â the heart of âThe Potteriesâ â and embraced a wide array of decorative styles, from art pottery to character jugs and collectible figurines. But perhaps one of the most beloved and accessible areas of Royal Doultonâs output was their Series Ware  â a line of everyday tableware brought to life with hand-painted and transfer-printed scenes, often telling stories or capturing slices of rural and historical English life. The âVillage Streetâ Series â A Slice of English Charm Introduced in the 1920s, âThe Village Streetâ pattern features a beautifully detailed portrayal of a quiet English village scene, with winding lanes, thatched cottages, and figures going about their daily routines. Designed to evoke a sense of rustic simplicity and pastoral charm, it taps into the interwar periodâs fondness for nostalgia and a yearning for tradition in a rapidly changing world. The series was part of Royal Doultonâs effort to produce functional yet decorative wares that brought art into the home. The designs were often signed or inspired by notable artists of the time and applied with care to practical items like teapots, jugs, plates, and bowls. About This Teapot â A True Vintage Delight Now available in our online shop is a rare and delightful Vintage Royal Doulton Series Ware Teapot â âThe Village Streetâ Pattern â c.1920s . It features the classic village scene wrapped around a warm, cream-coloured base with a well-proportioned spout and handle, complete with its original lid. The imagery is rich in detail, with hand-coloured highlights and crisp transfer work that still pops nearly a century on. This piece is not just a collectorâs item â itâs a useable piece of art. Whether you display it on a dresser or use it during special tea moments, it embodies the very best of Royal Doultonâs mission: to make the beautiful part of the everyday. đ Key Features : Authentic Royal Doulton backstamp âThe Village Streetâ Series Ware design Dating from circa 1920s Excellent vintage condition with age-appropriate wear A charming addition to any teatime or collectorâs shelf Why Collect Series Ware? Royal Doultonâs Series Ware holds a unique place in the hearts of vintage collectors. Each design captures a moment, a mood, or a slice of British culture, turning everyday crockery into something special. From Shakespearean characters to sporting scenes and quiet village lanes, these wares are decorative, functional, and increasingly rare to find in such good condition. Add This Piece of History to Your Home Our Royal Doulton âVillage Streetâ Teapot  is now available on www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk , ready to become part of your story. Whether youâre a teapot collector, a lover of early 20th-century ceramics, or simply seeking a unique conversation piece, this one is not to be missed. đ View the listing and make it yours today
- The Story Behind Harveyâs Bristol Cream (and Why Youâll Want This Vintage Bottle)
Few drinks conjure up the charm of a traditional British parlour quite like Harveyâs Bristol Cream. With its rich, velvety taste and regal blue bottle, it became a household name in the 70s and 80s â especially around Christmastime, when a sherry before lunch felt almost ceremonial. But Harveyâs is more than just a drink. First blended in 1882 by John Harvey & Sons, this famous sherry quickly gained a reputation for luxury and sophistication. Its distinctive blue glass bottle â introduced in the mid-20th century â became iconic in drinks cabinets across Britain. Today, these vintage bottles are treasured not only for their association with warm memories but also for their striking decorative appeal. At Objet dâArt Stuff, weâre offering an original vintage Harveyâs Bristol Cream bottle â complete with its rich cobalt glass and charming patina of age. Whether you're a collector of barware, a fan of mid-century design, or simply looking for a conversation-starting ornament, this piece will bring instant character to any space. Display it on a cocktail trolley, use it as a flower vase or with other bottles like we have, or gift it to someone who loves a nostalgic nod to classic British tradition. However you style it, this bottle is more than just packaging â itâs a piece of history in blue glass. Ready to take a little taste of the past home with you? đ Shop the item now on www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk
- Game, Set, Match: The Legacy of the Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket
For any lover of sport, heritage, or vintage design, the Dunlop Maxply Fort wooden tennis racket stands as a timeless symbol of tennis history. First introduced in the early 1930s, this iconic piece of equipment didnât just help win matchesâit helped shape the game itself. At Objet dâArt Stuff, weâre proud to offer an original Vintage Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket, complete with its original wooden press, preserving the shape and spirit of an era when tennis was every bit about craftsmanship as it was competition. View Product Here A Championâs Choice Used by some of the most legendary players in tennis history, including Rod Laver, John McEnroe, and Virginia Wade, the Dunlop Maxply Fort became synonymous with excellence on the court. Its laminated wooden frame, crafted from ash, maple, and other premium timbers, was prized for delivering power, control, and feel. Each racket was carefully constructed to balance weight and flexibilityâlong before carbon fibre revolutionised the sport. From Wimbledon lawns to club courts across the globe, the Maxply Fort became the wooden racket of choice for elite and amateur players alike throughout the mid-20th century. The Art of Play Unlike modern rackets made from graphite or aluminium, wooden rackets like the Maxply Fort demanded a different kind of finesse. Players relied more on skill and touch than brute power. The sweet spot was smaller, the margin for error slimmerâand the game, arguably, more elegant. Using a wooden racket today offers a nostalgic and tactile playing experience. For collectors, decorators, or tennis enthusiasts, it also makes a beautiful display piece that speaks to the golden age of the sport. Preserving History: Why the Original Press Matters One of the unique features of our vintage listing is the inclusion of the original wooden racket press. These devices were once essential for maintaining the shape of wooden rackets, preventing warping caused by humidity or heat. The presence of the press not only helps preserve the racketâs formâit adds authenticity and value for collectors. A Statement Piece Off the Court Whether displayed in a sports room, mounted in a vintage-themed cafĂŠ, or included in a theatre prop collection, this classic piece evokes a sense of tradition and timeless athleticism. It's more than just equipmentâit's sporting art. Product Summary Vintage Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket Includes original wooden press Great condition for age, with light wear consistent with use Ideal as a collectorâs item, gift for tennis lovers, or stage/set prop Shop it now at Objet dâArt Stuff đž Love Tennis? Love History? Youâll Love This. Owning a vintage tennis racket like the Dunlop Maxply Fort is like holding a piece of Wimbledon in your hands. Itâs not just a sporting relicâit's a testament to skill, tradition, and design excellence. Ready to serve up a piece of history?
- A Day in the Life of a Croix du Combattant Recipient
Picture a crisp morning in rural France, 1931. Pierre Dubois, a weathered but proud veteran, has just pinned the new Croix du Combattant to his chestâa bronze cross awarded to those who endured front-line combat in the Great War or earlier conflicts . Letâs walk through a day in his life, and through his medal, unfold its history and symbolism. đ Dawn at the Village Pierre wakes just before sunrise in his modest farmhouse. The morning light filters through wooden shutters as he prepares his morning coffee by the hearth. Under his shirt lies more than a medalâitâs a symbol of sacrifice. The Croix du Combattant was officially created in 1930, following the creation of the âcarte du combattantâ in 1926, to formally recognize those who had served in front-line combat during World War I, earlier colonial wars, and later conflicts like WWII, Indochina, Korea, and North Africa . đĄď¸ The Award & Its Symbolism The medal features a 36âŻmm bronze cross pattĂŠe, symbolizing martial valour, with a laurel wreath nestled between its arms . On the obverse, it bears the effigy of a helmeted Marianneâthe national personification of Franceâencircled by RĂPUBLIQUE FRANĂAISE . The reverse shows a downpointing sword with radiant rays and the inscription CROIX DU COMBATTANT . The ribbonâs pale horizon-blue colour with red stripes echoes the âhorizon blueâ of the Poilu uniform, visually linking the medal to the soldiers it honours . đĽ Midday in Town By noon, Pierre locks his farmhouse and heads into the village. He carries himself with quiet pride but also with a sense of lingering trauma. He remembers the long trenches, the mud, the constant threat of artillery. The medal at his chest draws nods of respect from villagersâitâs not merely symbolic, but deeply personal. Young men and women in the cafĂŠ listen as Pierre recounts glimpses of distant battlefields, of comrades lost, of the price of freedom. The Croix isnât just metal; itâs testimony. đż Afternoon â A Humble Retreat Back home, Pierre tends to his small garden, hands steady though his mind drifts to memories. The medal rests on the mantle beside his medal cardâthe âcarte du combattantââa document that grants veterans rights and access to benefits for their service . Villages across France held similar scenes: veterans quietly rebuilding civilian lives, their medals both a credential and a burdenâbearing witness to horrors endured for the future of their nation. đ Evening â Community Gathering At dusk, villagers gather at the local war memorial for the weekly remembrance ceremony. Pierre places a wreath, the medal glinting dimly under lamplight. Children recite names, old men nod, and the village stands in solidarity. From 1930 onward, veterans of subsequent conflictsâWorld War II, Indochina, Korea, North Africa, Afghanistan, and othersâwould also earn the right to wear this cross, thanks to expanding eligibility laws in 1948, 1952, 1974, 1994, and 2015 . These laws reflect France's ongoing recognition of military service across generations. đď¸ Why It Matters Today 1. Personal Honour For veterans like Pierre, the Croix du Combattant wasnât just a decorationâit was recognition that their suffering and sacrifice were seen and remembered. 2. Living Memory By sharing stories at ceremonies, by wearing the medal, veterans kept alive the memory of those lost and cautioned against the horrors of war. 3. National Evolution The expansion of eligibility over the decadesâfrom WWI veterans to those of Afghanistanâspeaks to Franceâs evolving commitment to honouring all who served beneath its flag . Pierre Duboisâs day illustrates the Croix du Combattant as living historyâa bridge between the trenches of World War I and the quiet fields of rural France. This vintage medal is more than antiquarian; it encapsulates resilience, national memory, and the steady march toward honouring those who stood in defense of their country.
- Vintage Pifco mid-century British Ingenuity
Step back into the refined elegance of the 1950s with the Vintage Pifco Electric Tie Pressâa pristine example of mid-century British ingenuity. This remarkable piece, available now at Objet dâArt Stuff, isn't just a collector's dream; it's a tangible slice of history that speaks to a time when attention to detail and sartorial excellence were paramount. đ§ A Testament to Timeless Craftsmanship Manufactured by Pifco (Provincial Incandescent Fittings Company), a brand synonymous with quality British electrical appliances since 1900, this tie press embodies the post-war era's commitment to innovation and style. Pifco, known for its diverse range of household gadgets, introduced the electric tie press in the 1950s to cater to the modern gentleman's desire for impeccably pressed attire. This particular model remains in "as-new" condition, a rarity that enhances its allure. Encased in its original packaging, complete with the manufacturer's instructions and protective wrapping, it features a sleek Bakelite handle and a classic two-pin plugâhallmarks of the era's design aesthetics. đŠ More Than a PressâA Piece of History While contemporary fashion may not demand the daily pressing of ties, this device serves as a captivating decorative piece or conversation starter. Its presence evokes the meticulous grooming rituals of the past and offers a glimpse into the domestic technologies that once revolutionized daily life. Collectors and vintage enthusiasts will appreciate its authenticity and the story it tellsâa narrative of a time when even the smallest details were attended to with care and precision. đď¸ Own a Slice of the 1950s This Vintage Pifco Electric Tie Press is more than an appliance; it's a celebration of design, history, and the enduring appeal of classic craftsmanship. Whether displayed in a study, boutique, or personal collection, it stands as a testament to an era that valued elegance and innovation. đ Explore this unique item at Objet dâArt Stuff https://www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk/product-page/vintage-1950s-pifco-electric-tie-press-never-been-used-as-new Embrace the charm of yesteryears and let this exquisite piece add a touch of vintage sophistication to your space.
- Dial Into History: The Timeless Charm of a Vintage French Bakelite Rotary Telephone
At Objet dâArt Stuff, weâre passionate about curating pieces that tell storiesâitems that carry the weight of history, craftsmanship, and design. One such treasure currently gracing our shop is a vintage French Bakelite rotary telephone, dating from the 1930s to 1950s. This isnât just an object; itâs a portal into a golden era of communication, European style, and technological innovation. A Masterpiece of French Telecommunications Imagine a time when every ring of the telephone was a significant eventâwhen homes and offices alike proudly displayed their phones as both practical tools and elegant fixtures. Manufactured during the heyday of Franceâs Postes, TĂŠlĂŠgraphes et TĂŠlĂŠphones (PTT) service, this telephone embodies the refinement and functional artistry that defined mid-20th-century French design. Crafted from rich, glossy black Bakelite, the revolutionary early plastic, the telephoneâs form is both sleek and enduring. The front bears the âFRâ insignia, signifying its authentic French originsâan emblem of national pride in design and innovation. Design Details That Delight What makes this piece so special are its original, unaltered features: A satisfying rotary dial, whose rhythmic spin harks back to a pre-digital age. The authentic 4-pronged T-type connector, untouched and preserved for collectors who value originality. Subtle gold Art Deco embellishments adorning the base, adding understated luxury to its silhouette. An original woven fabric cord, a rare tactile element absent from todayâs synthetic alternatives. A handset designed for comfort, nestled atop its classic U-shaped cradle. Every element whispers of a time when design and function intertwined, when even everyday objects were created with elegance in mind. A Conversation Starter for Any Space In its heyday, a phone like this would have been found in well-appointed French homes, administrative offices, and creative studiosâa mark of sophistication and modernity. Today, it serves beautifully as a statement piece: perfect for display on a writing desk, side table, or console. Whether youâre a lover of vintage technology, a collector of European design, or a set decorator seeking authentic props, this telephone delivers style and substance in equal measure. Excellent Vintage Condition This particular example is in superb vintage condition, with only gentle signs of age that add character rather than detract from its beauty. The Bakelite casing is intact, the original wiring and dial remain, and the piece retains its original French PTT 4-prong plugâpreserved for authenticity. At ÂŁ145.00 (+ postage), itâs an accessible investment in history and design, and a perfect gift for anyone fascinated by the intersection of technology and art. Bring a Touch of Vintage France Into Your Home If youâve been searching for a unique dĂŠcor item, a collectorâs piece, or simply a slice of 20th-century nostalgia, this vintage French Bakelite rotary telephone ticks all the boxes. Explore more details and purchase directly from our shop here. Let history ring trueâadd this timeless treasure to your collection today.
- Behind the Scenes at Our Vintage Warehouse: Where Quality Meets Care
Although our warehouse isnât open to the public, every item available on www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk begins its journey hereâa vibrant, well-organised space where history, craftsmanship, and care come together. This isnât just a place to store stockâitâs where the magic happens. From vintage tins and antique ceramics to industrial oddities and decorative treasures, each piece is hand-selected and lovingly handled. Once it enters our collection, itâs carefully cleaned, assessed, and photographed to showcase its unique character. You might not be able to browse the shelves in person, but our goal is to make the online experience feel just as rich and trustworthy. Weâre passionate about transparency and quality. Every listing includes detailed descriptions that highlight an item's background, dimensions, and any charming signs of age. This attention to detail allows you to shop with confidence, knowing exactly what youâre purchasingâjust as if you were holding it in your hands. We also believe in doing things sustainably. All our packaging is designed to protect your item while being as eco-conscious as possible. Whether your parcel is heading to a cottage in Cornwall or across the ocean to a collector in Canada, we ensure itâs packed with care and arrives safely. We ship across the UK and internationally, so no matter where you are, you can enjoy our handpicked selection of antique and vintage items. And because we know how exciting fresh finds can be, new stock is added to our website within 48 hours of being acquired. Simply visit the home page and explore the âNew Arrivalsâ section to see whatâs just landed. At Objet dâArt Stuff, weâre proud to offer more than just beautiful thingsâwe offer stories, memories, and the joy of discovering something truly special. Visit www.objetdart-stuff.co.uk today and take a look at whatâs waiting to be found.
- A Glimpse into the Past: The Medicinal Use of Real Devonshire Violets
The Boots Real Devonshire Violets Cachous Tin is a charming relic from the early 20th century, encapsulating the elegance and sensibilities of its era. Produced by Boots The Chemist, a renowned British pharmacy chain established in the 19th century, this tin offers more than just a containerâit tells a story of societal norms, personal grooming, and the art of presentation. Historical Context Boots The Chemist, founded in the mid-1800s, became a household name in the UK, offering a range of health and beauty products. By the 1930s, the company had expanded its offerings to include items like the Real Devonshire Violets Cachous, reflecting the period's emphasis on personal hygiene and the burgeoning beauty industry. During this time, cachousâsmall, flavored breath freshenersâwere popular among both men and women. Infused with the delicate scent of Devonshire violets, these cachous not only served a practical purpose but also aligned with the era's fascination with floral fragrances, which were associated with refinement and sophistication. Design and Aesthetics The tin itself is a testament to the design sensibilities of the 1930s. Adorned with intricate floral patterns and elegant typography, it reflects the Art Deco movement's influence, which emphasized geometric shapes, symmetry, and bold colors. Such packaging was not merely functional but also served as a decorative item, often displayed on dressing tables or carried in handbags. The choice of violets as the primary motif and scent is significant. Violets have long been associated with modesty, humility, and faithfulness. In the Victorian language of flowers, gifting violets conveyed sentiments of affection and remembrance. Thus, the cachous tin not only offered a practical solution for freshening breath but also resonated with deeper emotional and cultural meanings. Cultural Significance In the early 20th century, personal grooming and presentation were paramount, especially for women. Products like the Real Devonshire Violets Cachous allowed individuals to maintain freshness discreetly, aligning with societal expectations of decorum and propriety. The portability of the tin made it convenient for on-the-go use, ensuring that one could uphold these standards throughout the day. Moreover, the emphasis on floral scents like violet reflects the era's romanticism and the desire to connect with nature's purity amidst rapid industrialization. Such products provided a sensory escape, transporting users to idyllic countryside landscapes with each use. Collectible Value Today, the Boots Real Devonshire Violets Cachous Tin is a sought-after collectible, cherished by enthusiasts of vintage beauty products and historical memorabilia. Its enduring appeal lies in its combination of aesthetic beauty, cultural significance, and the nostalgia it evokes for a bygone era. Collectors value such items for their craftsmanship, historical context, and the stories they encapsulate. Conclusion The Boots Real Devonshire Violets Cachous Tin is more than just a container for breath fresheners; it is a window into the past, reflecting the values, aesthetics, and daily practices of the early 20th century. Its enduring charm serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of elegance, attention to detail, and the human desire to connect with beauty in everyday life. For those interested in owning a piece of this history, the vintage tin is available for purchase at Objet d'Art Stuff, offering a tangible connection to the elegance of yesteryears.











