Bought a weird ceramic jar at a spring estate sale. It has a lid with a finger sized hole in the center and hand painted flowers. No smells, completely empty inside. Anyone know what this thing is?

Advertisement

5. Design Details That Confirm It’s a Hair Receiver
Several design elements of the jar confirm its identity as a hair receiver. The size and shape are consistent with those of other known hair receivers, which were typically small and round to fit comfortably on a vanity. The hole in the lid is a defining feature, as it allows for the easy deposit of hair.
The hand-painted floral design is also telling. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many personal grooming items featured similar decorative motifs, making them both functional and visually pleasing. The craftsmanship and attention to detail suggest that this was an item intended for regular use, blended seamlessly into the aesthetic of a woman’s vanity.

6. Common Materials, Patterns, and Makers to Look For
Hair receivers were often crafted from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or glass. They were sometimes part of a matching set that included other vanity items. Common patterns included florals, as seen on this jar, as well as other popular motifs like cherubs or pastoral scenes.
Some well-known makers of hair receivers included companies like Limoges, Royal Worcester, and Nippon. These manufacturers often marked their pieces with identifiable stamps or imprints, which can help in dating and authenticating the item.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *