Hello, Fellow Collectors!
I have some incredibly exciting news to share with all of you! After years of diligent searching and countless adventures, I’ve finally added the elusive Norcrest Blue Cat Cookie Jar to my collection! This rare gem is one of the most sought-after pieces in the Norcrest Blue Cat set, and its addition marks a significant milestone in my journey as a collector.
The Journey to Completing the Norcrest Blue Cat Collection
Collecting the Norcrest Blue Cat set is not just a hobby; it’s an adventure filled with history, art, and a sense of community. Manufactured in Japan in the 1950s and 1960s by the PY/Miyao company, these adorable ceramic pieces are a treasure trove for any collector. Each piece, numbered on the bottom with a “CT” and sometimes still featuring their original Norcrest foil label, tells a story of a bygone era of craftsmanship and whimsy.
I did a post a couple of years ago about the Norcrest Blue Cat set you can read here
The Norcrest Blue Cat set consists of these 12 pieces:
- Teapot – CT-1
- Oil and Vinegar – CT-2
- Jam Jar – CT-3
- Salt and Pepper Shakers – CT-4
- Sugar Jar – CT-5
- Milk pitcher CT-6
- Butter Dish – CT-7
- Creamer/pitcher – CT-8
- Cat Bowl – CT-9
- Cookie Jar CT-10
- Wall Plaque – CT-11
- Teabag Holder – CT-12
- Egg Cup – unmarked, no CT number
- Tea Cup – mystery item?
Tips for Aspiring Collectors:
- Where to Look: Start your search on eBay, Etsy, Mercari, and specialized Facebook collector groups. These platforms are treasure troves for finding pieces like the blue cat wall plaque, creamer, and sugar/jam jar.
- Be Persistent: The key to success is persistence. Check these sites daily for new listings, as rare items don’t come up often but are definitely worth the wait.
- Stay Alert: Set up notifications on eBay and other platforms to be immediately informed when new items are listed. This proactive approach is how I finally snagged my cookie jar!
- Inspect Carefully: When you find a piece, inspect it for any damage, especially in areas like the ears, tail, and necks of the cruet toppers. Remember, condition is key!
- Keywords are Key: Use specific search terms like “PY”, “Miyao”, “Big Eyes”, “Japan”, “Anthropomorphic”, “Kitsch”, and “Kitschy Cute” to narrow down your search.
- Connect with the Community: Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to ceramic collectors. Here, you can share tips, find leads, and maybe even make a few trades.
The Thrill of the Hunt
The thrill of adding a new piece to your collection is incomparable. For me, the moment I added the Norcrest Blue Cat Cookie Jar, it was a feeling of triumph and joy. Each piece in this collection, from the teapot (CT-1) to the mysterious, rumored tea cup (CT-13), holds its own charm and story.
Final Thoughts
Collecting these pieces is more than just acquiring objects; it’s about connecting with history, art, and a community of passionate collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, the Norcrest Blue Cat set offers a delightful and rewarding experience.
So, let’s keep the hunt alive! Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next lucky collector to find that rare piece that completes your collection. Happy collecting, everyone!
If you’re passionate about starting or expanding your Norcrest Blue Cat collection, don’t miss out on visiting my Etsy shop. I’ve carefully curated a selection of charming duplicates from this enchanting series, perfect for both new and seasoned collectors. Dive into the world of Norcrest Blue Cats and find your next treasure with us!
Stay Excited, Stay Collecting!
