WHY IT’S HOT During the late-19th and early-
20th centuries, utilitarian household wares, such as
coff eepots and bathing pitchers, got a makeover when
powdered glass was fused with steel in a kiln, producing
happy colors and a sturdy, washable, rustproof fi nish.
Although developed throughout Europe, and in America shortly
after, French enamelware is highly sought after because of
the quality of designs that poured out of that country. “French
enamelware pieces feel more one-of-a-kind,” says Rita Reade,
host of Southern California’s The Vintage Marketplace. “People
love the colors—from buttercup yellow to Kelly green—especially
on old buckets and pitchers.” Collectors are attracted to their
versatility and artfulness, putting the pieces to use or on display.
HINT Older pieces will be riveted together rather than soldered.
Antique examples feel substantial and have thick, glossy fi nishes.
Here’s a quick test: Tap the bottom of a piece with your fi ngernail.
If it sounds tinny, it’s a newer piece. Fine lines are signs of age,
and for many collectors these add to the appeal. Crazing and
small chunks of missing enamel don’t detract from the value,
but rust does.
COST Tall, tapered French pitchers (called body pitchers)
regularly bring $100 to $300, depending on age, condition, and
rarity of color. Stacked “Biggin” coff eepots heat up to about $100.
Early French pieces hand-painted with fl oral motifs are highly
coveted, costing $300 and up.
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86 SPRING/SUMMER 2019
