Vintage lucite acrylic 6-bottle wine rack – unusual! Scandi look: this very decorative wine rack is unusual. Get a different look rather than the usual wooden crate! Some minor age-related wear (wine not included; illustration only)
 
37 cm wide
18 cm depth at base
26 cm tall
 
Lucite's history began with DuPont in the 1930s when they developed the transparent, shatter-resistant acrylic plastic. It gained prominence as a glass substitute during World War II for aircraft canopies and other military uses. After the war, Lucite was used in a variety of commercial products, including fashion accessories, furniture, and decorative items. Today, Lucite remains a popular choice for applications requiring clarity and durability and is still produced under various brand names, including the original Lucite®.
Development and Early Use (1930s)
Invention: Lucite was invented in 1931 by the DuPont company while exploring new high-pressure technologies.
Properties: It is a type of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a clear thermoplastic known for its >90% clarity and high impact resistance, making it an excellent alternative to glass.
World War II and Military Applications (1940s)
Aircraft: During World War II, Lucite was in high demand for aircraft parts like nose cones, gun turrets, and bombardier's compartments.
Submarine use: The material was also used for submarine periscopes and viewing ports, offering a shatter-resistant alternative to glass.
Post-War Commercialisation and Popularity (1940s-1970s)
Jewellery: In the 1940s and 1950s, Lucite became very popular for costume jewellery due to its affordability and versatility.
Bags & Accessories: The material was widely used to create transparent handbags, shoes, and other fashion accessories.
Furniture: Lucite was also used in furniture, including the famous suite of furniture for cosmetics entrepreneur Helena Rubinstein.
Symbol of Modernity: Its unique properties and modern aesthetic made Lucite a symbol of innovation and style in the mid-20th century. Lucite Today
Brand Names: Lucite is a trademark for PMMA, which is also sold under other trade names like Plexiglas and Perspex.
Modern Applications: The material is still used today in a variety of applications, including aquarium construction, signage, and speciality architectural elements.