CERAMIC SALT & PEPPER SHAKER SET Black Americana Circa Late 1930s - 1941

Vintage Black Americana SALT & PEPPER SHAKER SET from the late 1930s features a black couple dressed for domestic service. The woman wears a blue and orange polka dot dress with a green and orange plaid apron and a red kerchief. The gentleman is clad in a formal black waistcoat, bow tie, white tuxedo pants, white shirt, and a red cummerbund.

Both 6" hand painted figurines display their hands clasped at the waist and retain their original cork stoppers. The set presents with no cracks or chips, but with expected crazing due to age. It is marked on the bottom with “JAPAN”.

Historical Context & Content Notice

This item reflects imagery and themes that were produced during periods of racial inequality in the United States. Such objects often contain harmful stereotypes that are offensive today. They are presented here for historical documentation and educational purposes only, not as an endorsement of the views they depict.

Museums and scholars emphasize the importance of preserving and contextualizing this material to better understand the history of racism and its impact. This approach is informed by institutions such as the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University, which uses artifacts of intolerance to teach tolerance and promote social justice.