Head vases were used by florists to display flower arrangements.
Head vases, colorfully painted ceramic vases often made to resemble the heads of ladies, are a fun collector's item that can also be quite valuable, with original vases currently priced at more than $1,000. The original vases were produced as low-cost novelty items.
History
Produced as flower vases in the years prior to World War II, lady head vases achieved their greatest popularity during the 1950s, when they were used by florists to promote sales. Most of the vases were made in Japan and sold to florists through pottery importers.
American Companies
American companies also produced head vases, including Betty Lou Nichols Ceramics, Ceramic Arts Studio and Stanford Pottery. However, most of the American vases found today were produced prior to 1950. Head vases continued to be produced by Japanese manufacturers into the 1960s.
Features
The "fashion model" type of head vase was one of the most popular designs. These vases feature flourishes such as faux-pearl necklaces and earrings, hair bows and eyelashes, and sometimes a well-manicured hand stroking the face.
Size
While early vases were often above 8 inches in height, the designs shrunk to 3 to 4 inches to save on costs when the item increased in popularity in the 1960s.
Collecting
Some of the most prized head vases today are in the likeness of celebrities, such as Jacqueline Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe. Rarity is also a factor in value. At the 13th Annual Head Vase Convention in 2005, an unmarked, never-before-seen vase sold for a record-breaking $6100, according to LadyHeads.com.
Related posts
Making headbands is an easy, enjoyable craft. The best part is that the final product is something you can actually use. Headbands are wonderful, because they work with hair of any length, and the...
Clear glass vases are easier to decorate.Memory vases are a lifetime reminder of special events or special people. Birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and more can be commemorated with a special va...
Homemade headbands can be made to easily fit your child's head.A cute headband can be just the right statement on your baby or toddler. While there are many pink and white headbands available for...
Bows spruce up any hairstyle in a hurry.Headbands keep your hair neat and tidy while adding a touch of decoration to a plain 'do. Even if you are not a fan of head-squeezing elastic or plastic hea...
Whether simple and sweet or over-sized and outlandish, eye-catching hair bows are just too pretty to be hidden away in a drawer. With just a few simple objects and a little bit of creativity, you...
