1940’s

Bakelite Chinaman Pretzel holder, Germany circa 1940’s

This is a Stunning Bakelite Pretzel holder, Germany circa 1940’s.

A Fantastic design so evocative of the era. The stylised Chinaman figure is made of yellow and black Bakelite standing on a rectangular black Bakelite stand. Great form and detailing with the conical Asian hat, eyes, a rod nose, collar and buttons in black, and the body and head in a very faintly marbled yellow.

The pretzel sticks can be held in the coiled spring gilt metal basket on his back, pretzel rings can be slid on the metal pole, which is topped with a yellow bakelite ball.

Great as a table / bar accessory, could be used as part of a table setting for Christmas or parties, coule be used for sweets / cigarettes etc.

A Fantastic antique Bakelite collectable that would make a great addition to any collection, and would complement any retro, vintage, 1940’s, 1950’s, Art Deco, Modernist or contemporary interior.

In Excellent Condition, no marks, chips or scratches, usual age related marks on the underside of the base, nothing visible.

Measures 16.5 x 9 x 6cm / 6.5 x 3.5 x 2.5in.

IMG_5526 IMG_5523

Ceramiche Zaccagnini Geisha playing a harp figurine, Florence, Italy circa 1940’s / 50’s


This is a beautiful and rare piece of Mid Century Modernist Italian pottery by the Zaccagnini pottery.  Depicting a Japanese Geisha playing a harp (kugo) the style owes much to the companies Art Nouveau and Art Deco heritage.  Produced under the tutelage of Urbano Zaccagnini who had taken over the pottery from his father Ugo in 1937, the focus shifted to decorative figurines, finding favour with high class US stores such as Tiffany’s. During this period they also produced limited, highly collectable and valuable figures for Disney.  This wonderful piece contrasts an unglazed matte base with a vibrant blue majolica glaze giving the stylised figure an ancient appearance.