Timeless Picnic Containers: Revisiting the Past through a Woven Basket Meal
In the heart of Germany, some of the most renowned manufacturers of vintage picnic sets can be found. Companies like Hutschenreuter, WMF, and Villeroy & Boch have been crafting these timeless pieces for generations.
The origins of picnicking can be traced back to informal indoor gatherings, where guests would bring food and drink. As the automobile boom of the early 1900s swept across the globe, portable picnic gear became increasingly popular. Manufacturers started producing compact aluminum picnic sets in bright colours, catering to the growing demand for outdoor dining.
Merchants soon started selling specialized picnic baskets, or "hampers", designed to carry dining ware and delicacies in style. The "Pic-Nic Society" emerged in London in 1801, hosting nights of indulgence filled with music, gambling, and revelry.
As picnicking moved outdoors, lavish spreads and libations like champagne became commonplace. By the 18th and 19th centuries, picnics served as socially acceptable settings for courtship, providing a relaxed backdrop for budding romances.
The mid-20th century saw a shift in the typical picnic menu, with dishes like fried chicken, potato salad, fruit, sandwiches, and pies becoming staples. The 1970s brought a further change, with plastic becoming the material of choice for lightweight and easy-to-clean components.
However, for those seeking a touch of nostalgia or a piece of history, vintage picnic sets remain highly sought after. These can be found at antique shops, flea markets, estate sales, and online. Prices range from affordable to extravagant, with complete sets in excellent condition being the most valuable.
Some collectors even refresh vintage picnic sets with new linings or replacement pieces, blending old-world charm with modern convenience. Brands like Brexton and Louis Vuitton, known for their elegant picnic sets, continue to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors.
The Peterboro Basket Company, founded in 1854, became a staple for hand-woven baskets in New England. Louis Vuitton, too, produced picnic sets fit for high society in the early 20th century.
Today, picnicking remains a timeless tradition, embodying the essence of good company, fresh air, and simple pleasure. Whether you're after a piece of history, a touch of nostalgia, or just a fun day out, vintage picnic sets offer a unique charm that continues to captivate us.
Jessica Kosinski, a freelance researcher and writer since 2001, recently turned her passion for pre-1990s television and films into a retro TV and film blog. Her love for the past is evident in her work, and her insights into the world of vintage picnic sets are a testament to her dedication to preserving history.
The first literary mention of something resembling the word "picnic" appeared in a 17th-century French poem, but the tradition of picnicking has evolved and endured for centuries, becoming a cherished part of our cultural heritage.
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