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.
Where bluebirds gossip, flowers blush, and vegetables smile back.
There’s something magical that happens when you open the glass doors of a true kitsch queen’s cabinet. It’s not just a display—it’s a stage where bluebirds flirt, flower-faced cuties pose, and wide-eyed corn cuties are ready for their close-up.
Lately, “shelfies” (yes, selfies for your shelves) have become the must-see snapshots across vintage Instagram, and for good reason. These curated displays of mid-century Japan ceramics—especially the anthropomorphic kind—are joyful, whimsical, and pure serotonin in ceramic form.
Vintage Japan Bluebirds
🩵 🐦Lefton Bluebirds lead the charge, their sweet sky-colored wings and bashful smiles turning spice racks into scenes from a 1950s kitchen fairytale. Norcrest and Topline Imports also manufactured bluebirds in Japan in the 1950s along with Lefton. Whether perched on planters or peeking from sugar bowls, they bring the chirpiest charm.
🌸 Flower-faced cuties—like daffodil darlings, pansy pixies, and rosy-cheeked blooms—are in full bloom inside collectors’ cabinets. These pastel-hued petals with personality add the perfect pop of charm to spring and summer shelfies. Made by PY Miyao in 1950s Japan, these whimsical wall plaques and pockets are prime examples of anthropomorphic ceramics—where even flowers have faces (and fabulous attitudes).
Vintage PY Anthropomorphic Flower Planters and Wall PLaques Japan 1950sPY Corn Anthropomorphic
🌽 And let’s not forget the anthropomorphic produce: corn with eyelashes, cabbage with sass, and all have those big eyes and long eyelashes. These pieces, mostly by PY and Napco, are little works of adorably wonderful ceramics from the 1950s that turn kitchens into retro dreamlands.
Py Miyao Cabbage Cuties
Peek inside vintage kitsch cabinets featuring Lefton bluebirds, flower-face cuties, and PY anthropomorphic ceramics in the ultimate “shelfie” showcase. These aren’t just shelves—they’re retro wonderlands where bluebirds gossip, blushing blossoms pose, and vegetables grin like they’re starring in a mid-century sitcom. If you’re into whimsical nostalgia, cabinet displays are where the magic lives (and winks right back at you). You can see more pictures and read about these amazing collectionsright hereon the blog—and if you’re now itching to get your hands on some of these kitsch cuties, you can visit my Etsy shop for fabulous finds!
Most of the photos featured are from my personal collection, with a few sourced from Pinterest to show the full charm of these collectible cuties.
Dive into the enchanting world of Norcrest mermaids—tiny ceramic masterpieces that capture the whimsical beauty of the 1950s. With their exquisite craftsmanship, irresistible charm, and vintage allure, these collectibles stand out in the world of mermaid figurines. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering their magic, I’ll guide you through their rich history, value, and expert tips for curating your own collection. If you’ve ever wanted to start or expand your Norcrest mermaid collection, you’re in the right place—let’s explore the best tips for finding, preserving, and showcasing these stunning treasures!
The history of Norcrest mermaids is just as fascinating as the figures themselves. It all began with Hide Naito, a Japanese immigrant who founded a gift shop in Portland, Oregon, way back in 1921. Over time, that little shop grew into a huge wholesale operation. After World War II, Hide and his son Sam made a bold move: they shifted their focus to “Made in Japan” gifts, and that’s when Norcrest China Company was born (in 1958).
Norcrest quickly became a hit, known for its high-quality ceramics. Their mermaids, with their iconic designs, were stars of the collection, gracing bathrooms and powder rooms across America. Alongside these charming mermaids, Norcrest’s whimsical bluebird series and head vases were also beloved. I love that Norcrest became a household name – there’s something so special about owning a piece of that nostalgic history.
Learn how your passion for mid-century modern can be turned into a hobby with the right knowledge and tools. This Kitschmas 101: The Best Tips to Collecting Mid-Century Christmas guide will teach you how to get started collecting vintage, kitschy holiday decor.
It’s that time of year again! The holidays are upon us and you know what that means… it’s time to dust off your collection of kitschmas figurines! For the uninitiated, kitschmas figurines are those adorable little statues or trinkets that depict festive scenes or characters.
They’re often made of ceramic or plastic, and they’re just begging to be collected! If you’re new to the world of collecting kitschmas figurines, don’t worry – this guide will teach you everything you need to know.
Kitschmas Figurines
Yasmina Greco and her Kitschmas Collectibles
The first thing you need to know about collecting vintage kitschmas figurines is that there is no wrong way to do it. Items from the 1950s-1960s typically fall into the vintage kitschmas category.
Whether you collect a specific type of figurine (e.g. only snowmen, shiny brite ornaments, tinsel trees, shopper girls, Santa’s, pixie elves, or angels), or you just buy whatever catches your eye, it’s all up to you! There are, however, a few tips and tricks that all collectors should keep in mind.
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!
Vintage Norcrest Snowman Family Salt and Pepper Shakers
There’s something undeniably magical about vintage snowman figurines, especially those from the 1950s and 1960s. For many collectors, these charming figures evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, transporting us back to the simplicity and joy of yesteryears. As a fellow enthusiast, I’m excited to share some tips and fun facts with our collector group!
Pictures in this post are part of my vintage Kitschy Christmas snowman collection and some of my very favorites and I hope you enjoy.
Vintage Chained Snowman Family Japan 1950s
1. The Allure of the Era: The 1950s and 1960s were a golden era for whimsical and festive decorations. Snowman figurines from this period often feature unique designs and hand-painted details that are rare in today’s mass-produced items.
2. Materials and Craftsmanship: These figurines were often made from ceramics, wood, and even early forms of plastic. Their handcrafted nature means each piece has its own character. Look for signature styles like glossy finishes, vibrant colors, and artisan touches.
Norcrest Snowman
3. Identifying Authentic Pieces: One key to collecting is knowing how to identify authentic vintage pieces. Check for maker’s marks, dates, and country of origin. Some renowned manufacturers from this era include Lefton, Napco, Norcrest, Ucagco, and Holt Howard.
4. Rarity and Value: The rarity of a figurine can significantly impact its value. Rare pieces, or those from renowned manufacturers, are particularly sought after. But remember, the sentimental value often outweighs the monetary worth!
Vintage Josef Originals Snowman Planters or Candy Containers
5. Preserving Your Collection: To maintain their charm, it’s essential to properly care for these vintage treasures. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, and clean them gently to avoid damaging the paint or material as many were cold painted and it can flake off.
Fun Fact: Did you know that in the 1950s and 1960s, snowman figurines were popular gifts and holiday decorations, often symbolizing the joy and wonder of the winter season?
Norcrest Snowman Kids Salt and Pepper Shakers
6. Community and Sharing: Joining groups like my Vintage Kitschy Christmas group is a fantastic way to share insights, find rare pieces, and celebrate the joy of collecting. Don’t hesitate to share your latest finds or seek advice from fellow collectors.
7. Enjoy the Hunt: Lastly, remember that part of the fun in collecting is the hunt itself. Whether it’s scouring antique shops, online auctions, or flea markets, each find has its own story.
Josef Originals Snowman Salt and Pepper Shakers
Collecting vintage snowman figurines is not just about owning a piece of history; it’s about preserving the warmth and joy of a bygone era. Let’s continue to share our passion and keep the spirit of these charming snowmen alive for generations to come!
Books
Best Collector Antique Books
There is no better way to learn about antiques than by absorbing as much knowledge as possible from books written by experts on the subject. These books cover vintage Christmas and kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles with numerous photographs, details about when an item was made and even values (values that were published at the time the book was printed) and even include manufacturer markings and signatures, the different labels and tags too that an item might have and where the item was made. Here are a few titles worth checking out:
With these great resources available on vintage kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles, there’s no excuse not to become an expert! Learning what there is to know about this era is easier than ever before. Happy hunting!
