Mid-Century Gold Atomic Stars Lidded Tureen

£30.00

The Story

This ‘buttermilk’ and gold tureen is a perfect mix of 1950s optimism and "Space Age" style. It features a fascinating dual-history common in the Staffordshire Potteries: the ceramic form was originally produced by Swinnerton's (a shape used for their 'Harvest' range), but the "Atomic Star" decoration was added by Universal Pottery of Longton. Universal Pottery operated for only a brief period between 1949 and 1962, making their "checkered" stamp (dating to 1956+) particularly collectible for those seeking authentic modernist kitchenware.

The Details

  • Dimensions: 12cm H (to finial) x 25cm W (including handles) x 19cm opening.

  • Design: Streamlined 'arc' handle, gilt line accents, and iconic atomic star motifs.

  • Palette: Pale buttermilk cream ground with shiny gold gilt detailing.

  • Era: Circa 1950s.

  • Maker: Swinnerton’s (body) and Universal Pottery (decoration).

  • Condition: Very good vintage condition. The gilt stars are intact and shiny. There is some patchy surface crazing to the lid and light crazing to the body consistent with age, but it is free of chips, cracks, or repairs.

Why It’s Special

The "Atomic Star" is one of the most recognizable motifs of the Mid-Century Modern (MCM) era, symbolizing the era’s fascination with science, space, and the future. This tureen bridges the gap between traditional serving ware and high-concept modernist design. Because Universal Pottery had such a short manufacturing life, their decorated pieces are less common than those from larger firms like Midwinter or Meakin.

Styling Tips

  • Alfresco Dining: Use it as a centerpiece for summer salads or new potatoes during a garden lunch. The gold stars catch the sunlight beautifully against a wooden outdoor table.

  • Retro Buffet: Pair it with other "buttermilk" or "creamware" pieces to create a cohesive 1950s buffet spread. It’s the perfect size for serving warm stews or vegetable sides.

  • Dresser Accent: When not in use, the streamlined arc handle and graphic stars make it a standout sculptural piece for a kitchen dresser or a teak sideboard.

Sustainable Shipping

  • 100% plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging.

  • U.K. Delivery: Sent via FREE Royal Mail Tracked 48 service.

The Story

This ‘buttermilk’ and gold tureen is a perfect mix of 1950s optimism and "Space Age" style. It features a fascinating dual-history common in the Staffordshire Potteries: the ceramic form was originally produced by Swinnerton's (a shape used for their 'Harvest' range), but the "Atomic Star" decoration was added by Universal Pottery of Longton. Universal Pottery operated for only a brief period between 1949 and 1962, making their "checkered" stamp (dating to 1956+) particularly collectible for those seeking authentic modernist kitchenware.

The Details

  • Dimensions: 12cm H (to finial) x 25cm W (including handles) x 19cm opening.

  • Design: Streamlined 'arc' handle, gilt line accents, and iconic atomic star motifs.

  • Palette: Pale buttermilk cream ground with shiny gold gilt detailing.

  • Era: Circa 1950s.

  • Maker: Swinnerton’s (body) and Universal Pottery (decoration).

  • Condition: Very good vintage condition. The gilt stars are intact and shiny. There is some patchy surface crazing to the lid and light crazing to the body consistent with age, but it is free of chips, cracks, or repairs.

Why It’s Special

The "Atomic Star" is one of the most recognizable motifs of the Mid-Century Modern (MCM) era, symbolizing the era’s fascination with science, space, and the future. This tureen bridges the gap between traditional serving ware and high-concept modernist design. Because Universal Pottery had such a short manufacturing life, their decorated pieces are less common than those from larger firms like Midwinter or Meakin.

Styling Tips

  • Alfresco Dining: Use it as a centerpiece for summer salads or new potatoes during a garden lunch. The gold stars catch the sunlight beautifully against a wooden outdoor table.

  • Retro Buffet: Pair it with other "buttermilk" or "creamware" pieces to create a cohesive 1950s buffet spread. It’s the perfect size for serving warm stews or vegetable sides.

  • Dresser Accent: When not in use, the streamlined arc handle and graphic stars make it a standout sculptural piece for a kitchen dresser or a teak sideboard.

Sustainable Shipping

  • 100% plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging.

  • U.K. Delivery: Sent via FREE Royal Mail Tracked 48 service.

Postage & Packaging:
As per our brand ethos, your item will be very carefully and securely shipped, wrapped with the utmost care in sustainable recycled and recyclable packaging.

UK Customers:
For U.K. customers, orders under £60 will be sent on a FREE Royal Mail second class service. Orders over £60 will be sent on a ‘tracked and signed’ for service where a signature is required upon receipt.

International Customers:
For International orders this will be at an additional cost depending on your location. We are not responsible for buyers import costs, any additional taxes or fees, or any delays with international shipping. For all orders outside of the U.K. your item(s) will be placed on an International 'Tracked and signed' for service and postage overs refunded if applicable.

Buyers Guide:
It is very important to note, that all the pieces Roof + Roof sell are genuine pieces of age, each having a rich and varied past and are never sold as in new condition. With this in mind, minor blemishes, surface scratches, manufacturing flaws and a general sense of their age and history are naturally to be expected. We always try, to the best of our ability to honestly and clearly communicate an items condition, both in our description and photography, highlighting anything over and above what we perceive as ‘general age related wear and tear'. We kindly ask you look closely at all our photos, using the zoom facility, as these naturally form part of the item's description.

Please be aware that your monitor, tablet, or mobile device may emulate colours/tones differently 'on screen' to that of the actual physical item, all of which are photographed and shown to the best of our abilities. Any item/prop shown in our photography is used for styling purposes only. Prior to purchasing, if you would like further clarification on any item, then we are always happy to help in any way possible.