Black Collectibles: Mammy and Her Friends

The cheerful design of household items which depict black people have made them collectible to a wide group today. Prompted by nostalgia and memories of warm households peopled by loving black hands, these kitchen tools with cute expressions so pleasant to have around are used as decorations in many homes. And in the collecting world, they are becoming popular. The legend which started Aunt Jemima pancakes is told and illustrated with many different variations of her image. Over 250 color photographs of spice shakers, tea sets, toys, match safes, books, ash trays, advertising cards, wall plaques, vases, etc. depict the diversity of items made with images of black people as the main design. Patent drawings of many designs are reproduced here from the archives of the U.S. Design Patents office. A price guide is included for quick references.