Discover the charm of vintage 1950s mermaid and fish collectibles—history, makers, and tips for starting your own whimsical underwater collection. From sultry sirens lounging on seashells to playful ceramic fish with sparkling eyes, these mid-century treasures capture a world of fantasy and nostalgia. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the hobby, this guide will take you on a colorful journey through their history, the artists who brought them to life, and how you can build your own enchanting “under the sea” display.
I have always loved mermaids, and the 1950s were a time of great fascination with the mythical creatures. This blog post will discuss how to collect vintage mermaids from this era to decorate your home. My favorite mermaids are from the early 50s made by Norcrest, Napco, and Lefton. I love how whimsical they look on my bathroom walls. I’ll also share more of my favorite finds with you all in this post.
Hello, pottery enthusiasts and history buffs! Today, we’re diving into the company of PY Miyao Craze: Japan’s Best Novelty Ceramics in America, an iconic ceramics company that captured the hearts of Americans in the post-World War II era.
From whimsical figurines to elegant tableware, The Japanese manufacturer novelty ceramics have become highly sought-after collector’s items. We will explore the company’s history and its move into the US market. You will also see why these designs still matter today.
PY Napco Green Apple Planter
The Birth of PY Miyao Japan Pottery
Started in the early 20th century, the PY Miyao Japan pottery company has its roots in the Aichi Prefecture, home to many renowned Japanese pottery centers. Founder Miyao Yoshida named the company after himself. The initials PY stand for ‘Pottery Yoshida..” Miyao’s goal was to bring the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese ceramics to a broader audience, both in Japan and abroad.
Vintage Easter kitsch ceramics are a charming way to celebrate the holiday with nostalgic flair. From ceramic bunny planters to whimsical 1950s figurines, these delightful collectibles capture the playful spirit of Easter. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this guide will help you discover, identify, and cherish vintage Easter treasures.
Relpo Blue Bunny Rabbit Planter KH985Rune Naito Kitsch Big Eye Bunny Rabitt LoverPY Miyao Anthropomorphic Bunny Rabbit Salt and Pepper Shakers EasterVintage Easter Kitsch Relpo Easter Bunny Planter
The Timeless Charm of Vintage Easter Collectibles
There’s something irresistible about vintage Easter decor. The bright colors, cheerful designs, and pure whimsy bring back memories of a simpler time. If you’re looking to infuse your Easter display with nostalgic charm, here are some must-have collectibles.
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.
Norcrest Blue Cat Wall Plaque CT-11
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.
Norcrest Blue Cat Tea Bag Holder CT-12
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 myEtsy 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!
Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of vintage Christmas decor with our recently launched eBook, “Vintage Kitschy Christmas: A Merry Introduction to Vintage Ceramic Christmas Trees“. It’s more than just a collection of words; it’s your passport to a nostalgic trip, a warm invitation to enjoy the glow of vintage Christmases, even amidst the summer heat!
Our eBook offers an engaging exploration into the world of ceramic Christmas trees. Dive into their fascinating history, discover their origins, learn about various types, identify leading manufacturers like Atlantic Mold, Holland Mold, Doc Holiday, and Nowells, and absorb a comprehensive guide on how to evaluate their worth. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge and practical advice, perfect for vintage decor enthusiasts.
As we approach the 4th of July, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and explore how you can infuse the vintage 50’s era into your wardrobe and home. Celebrate Independence Day with mid-century outfits and collectibles featuring patriotic, nautical-themed Pinup and Rockabilly styles, and charming mid-century kitsch.
Nautical Outfits: Classic American Fashion with a 50’s Twist
Patriotic and nautical fashion has been an iconic part of American style for decades. These themes blend beautifully during 4th of July celebrations, offering a chance to showcase your creativity and love for vintage fashion.
The Vintage Nautical Look
Creating a vintage 50’s nautical outfit begins with understanding the basic elements: think sailor pants, wide collars, and navy-and-white or red-and-white stripes. The 1950s was also an era of full skirts and A-line dresses, so feel free to add a full, pleated, midi-length skirt in a navy blue or red to your outfit.
The 4th of July is the perfect occasion to experiment with patriotic colors. Channeling the colors of the American flag – red, white, and blue – into your nautical ensemble will exude vintage charm and national pride all at once.
Complement your outfit with accessories like red scarves, blue sailor caps, or white retro sunglasses to add more authenticity and individuality.
Mid-Century 50’s Kitsch 4th of July Collectibles
The 1950s weren’t just a golden age for fashion, but for home décor too. This era saw the rise of kitsch, a style marked by the use of everyday, mass-produced objects as decoration. This quirky, whimsical style is a great way to add a touch of the 50’s to your 4th of July celebrations.
Patriotic Collectibles
Incorporate the stars and stripes into your décor through items like vintage ceramics by makers such as Napco, Lefton, Norcrest, Josef Originals, and Holt Howard. You can also incorporate 50’s era flags, or even mid-century style tablecloths featuring patriotic motifs. These small touches will contribute significantly to your 4th of July atmosphere.
As we celebrate this 4th of July, let’s honor the past as well as the present. By donning vintage 50’s era patriotic nautical outfits and decorating with mid-century kitsch collectibles, you’ll not only look the part but also feel it. Here’s to a stylish, nostalgic Independence Day!
