salt and pepper

Today at an antique store amidst the china and glassware there stood a 3-part plastic relic that looked very familiar to me. A pale blue pepper shaker, a salt shaker of pastel yellow, and a white plastic stand like an easel with two loops in which rested the shakers. The shakers had paler lids, also of plastic, which covered the containers. On the lids were smaller hinged lids that snapped open and shut, covering the little holes through which the salt and pepper is cast.

We had one of those in the 1960s! Only the stand was shaped a bit differently. Plastic was still relatively young, and the colorful, functional objects coming out had great appeal. The salt and pepper shakers were put out by Tupperware who promoted their products through Tupperware parties. Housewives traditionally set up these social-sales events. They invited friends, and took orders, and were rewarded with a few of the must-have items for free.

I’m more of a foe than a fan of plastic items these days, but I have to say the little Tupperware set made me smile.