I Love Head Vases!
Ranked #1,842 in Hobbies, Games & Toys, #20,313 overall
Head Vases are My Latest Obsession!
Well, I went & did it--again! Just when I thought I had outgrown collecting (Yeah, right! My husband would laugh his head off at THAT one!) I decided to start collecting lady head vases.
Yes, I have been bitten by the head vase bug--do they have a head vase anonymous? No? Well, they should! Anyone out there who has ever collected head vases knows what I'm talking about--it's like being bitten by a vampire--once the head vase bug sinks its teeth into you, there's NO turning back. OK--Don't say I didn't warn you! ;-)
Contents at a Glance
This is a work in progress lens. I will be adding more text and pictures as I venture along on my journey to obtain and learn everything I can about head vases. In the meantime, I invite you to journey along with me.
What is a Head Vase?
A Head vase is a figure (normally ceramic) of a head and shoulders with a large hole in the top of the head.
A Brief History of the Head Vase:
Although head vases actually got their start in Europe in the 1800s, the head vases most of us are familiar with came into being just before WWII. When the war ended, the U.S. began to import many low-cost items from Japan; most popular among these imports were ceramics, including head vases.
There were many companies in America that produced head vases as well, and on a large scale, including: Josef Originals, Betty Lou Nichols Ceramics, Royal Copley, Shawnee Pottery, Ceramic Arts Studio, Florence Ceramics, Roseville, Royal Haeger, Stanford Pottery, and Weller.
Head vases were used by florists to enhance their arrangements, and could also be purchased at the five-and-dime. As time went on, head vases became increasingly elaborate; the most popular ones were inspired by fashion models and movie stars.
Unfortunately, as the price of American labor increased, it became less profitable for American companies to manufacture head vases. By 1950, American production of head vases had largely become a thing of the past.
By the 1960s, the head vase market had peaked, and head vases became smaller and simpler in order to cut down on costs. Head vases lost their popularity; with the 1970s came the end of an era, as production of head vases came to a grinding halt.
Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide by David Barron
Today, I received a magnificent book in the mail, titled, Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide by David Barron.
It's a huge 384 pages, and not only is it chock full of thousands of head vase photos, many of which have never before been published in books, it also includes values and a quick reference guide to head vase numbers.
There are many extras in the book, including valuable tips on cleaning, eliminating crazing, and repairing head vases yourself. If you would rather not tackle the job of repairing that damaged head yourself, no problem--provided is a list of reputable professional head vase repairers to peruse.
To aid the head vase collector in her quest, reputable head vase dealers are spotlighted, with a brief rundown, including URLs. There is even a section on convention heads (which are presented at each annual Head Vase Convention) and information on attending the annual Head Vase Convention, just in case you're interested.
All in all, I'm extremely impressed with my copy of the book--I give it five stars! And--guess what? You can get the book much cheaper from the author Dave Barron himself! I did! While searching Amazon.com for the very same book, I discovered that it sold there for a whopping $49.78!
Dave Barron's price? Only $20 plus $4 for Priority shipping! And, not only that--my book was personally signed by none other than Dave Barron himself! Where did I get it, you might ask? I went to One Stop Head Vase Shop. Pick up your copy today, and enjoy your journey into the world of head vase collecting! :)
P.S.--My copy of Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide arrived so fast, it made my head spin! :)
Head Vase Poll
An Assortment of Head Vases, Including Men, Couples, Clowns, and Madonnas
Head Vases Come in Many Shapes, Sizes, and Colors
In addition to lady head vases, there are also head vases of celebrities, children, men, animals, nuns, madonnas, clowns, and even Disney characters.
What Kind of Head Vases Am I Collecting?
I seem to like the teen and young lady head vases the best; I enjoy their fresh-faced innocence. Also, I think they remind me of myself as a young girl, taking me back to that carefree time in my life that is so fleeting, although at the time, it didn't seem that way--time seemed to pass very, very slowly. When we are kids we are, unfortunately, in such a hurry to grow up, never realizing that childhood is the best time of our life. Once it's gone, it's gone forever.
I'm striving for quality. I would rather have a few quality head vases than several head vases with problems (cracks, chips, repairs, substantial paint loss, etc). I realize that because the head vases I'm collecting are vintage, they aren't going to be perfect--time has taken care of that--but I want them to be as perfect as reasonably possible.
Favorite Head Vase Poll
Photos of Teen Head Vases
Teen Head Vases on eBay
Dog Head Vases on eBay
What Size Do Head Vases Come in?
While head vases range in size from 2 to 14 inches, most of them are 7" and under.
Head Vase Size Poll
Betty Lou Nichols: Famous American Artist, Head Vase Pioneer, and Successful Business Woman
In my quest to learn all I can in my newfound hobby of collecting head vases, I discovered the art of Betty Lou Nichols, an American artist who is credited with making the head vase popular in the U.S.
Betty Lou's successful career in art had surprisingly humble beginnings; she got her start rolling out shapes with clay and a rolling pin on her parents' kitchen table. Betty, who always wanted to be an artist, learned how to create ceramics while studying art at Fullerton Junior College in California. When her husband was stationed overseas during World War II, she began to put her knowledge of ceramics to work and started experimenting with various designs. When her husband finally returned home in 1947, Betty somehow got the idea to create head vases.
Betty's unique brand of head vases were a big hit with the public; by 1949, Nichols had her own successful business, with 30 employees on the payroll. Although Betty Lou is best known for her head vases, she was a woman of many interests and talents, eventually branching out into all sorts of interesting projects: Nichols developed a massive Christmas line as well as other ornamental figurines. She created Jam Jars and Syrup pitchers for Knott's Berry Farm, and even ceramic figurines based on the animated film "Fantasia" for Disneyland in Anaheim, California.
In 1962, Betty Lou Nichols Ceramics forever closed its doors. The versatile and inventive Betty didn't sit on her haunches, though; she then proceeded to grab a paintbrush and paint portraits, still lifes, and landscapes until her death in 1995 at the age of 72. Today, these paintings are highly sought after by collectors, garnering steep prices at auction.
No two Betty Lou Nichols head vases are exactly alike. Rather than being based on famous people, like most head vases of the time, they are created in a gay '90s style, with generous ruffles, bows, and curls, and wide-brimmed hats. Although Betty used molds for the heads, details such as lace, ruffles, and bows were meticulously applied by hand using genuine Tennessee and Kentucky clay. The faces of these ladies typically have very full, coquettish eyelashes, no eyebrows, and high cheekbones.
In 1989, a woman by the name of Kathleen Cole wrote a book about head vases, titled, Head Vases: Identification and Values, which brought about a newfound appreciation of the head vase. After years of collecting cobwebs in dusty attics, head vases had suddenly become valuable collector items. In the mid 1990s, Betty Lou Nichols' head vases surged in popularity. Unfortunately, Nichols was unable to enjoy her newfound fame--she had suffered a couple of strokes--and died shortly afterward.
Today, Betty Lou Nichols' head vases continue to be prized by collectors, and may be found world wide in antique shops, online auction sites such as eBay, and up for bids in prestigious auction houses such as Christie's. Nichols' work may also be viewed in art exhibits across the country. Check your local listings for places, times, and dates.
In 2007, enamored by Betty Lou Nichols' head vases, Head vase collector Maddy Gordon featured her work in a book, titled, Head Vases, Etc.: The Artistry of Betty Lou Nichols. The book may be purchased on Amazon.com, as well as other websites.
Head Vases, Etc.: The Artistry of Betty Lou Nichols
Written by Maddy Gordon, Betty Lou fan and 22-year head vase collector, Head Vases, Etc.: The Artistry of Betty Lou Nichols, details the fifty-year career span of artist Betty Lou Nichols.
Nichols' colorful work is documented with over 600 photographs, many of which are rare and never before seen examples of her work.
Although Betty Lou's head vases are spotlighted, her portraits, figurines, landscape, and still life paintings are also included, much to the delight of her fans.
Get Your Copy Here
Betty Lou Nichols Head Vase Poll
Maddy Gordon: The Ultimate Head Vase Queen
Who has over 3,000 head vases to her name? Why, Maddy Gordon, of course. Maddy, author of Head Vases, Etc.: The Artistry of Betty Lou Nichols, has been dilligently collecting head vases for more than two decades.
What got her started on this unusual hobby? The first time Maddy ever set eyes on a head vase was at a local antique show. Intrigued by some little ceramic people sitting on steps, Maddy asked the seller what they were. Although she had never even heard of a head vase before, Maddy ended up taking three home with her that day, supposedly for a friend's house-warming gift. The friend never received the gift, and the rest is history.
Upon entering Maddy's Scarsdale, New York home, you may have the feeling you're being watched, and you are: with head vases gracing the walls in every single room of the house--including the bathroom and hallway--there are thousands of eyes upon you at any given moment.
Why does Maddy's husband put up with all of these strange occupants? Some of Maddy's head vases are worth thousands of dollars; and, the value is going up every day. So, not only do Maddy's head vases make interesting conversation pieces, they're also a great investment.
In 2002, Maddy and her head vases were featured in a segment of the HGTV television show, "Ultimate Collectors." When asked what it is about the head vase that intrigues her, Maddy stated that the slight differences are what pique her interest; no two head vases are exactly alike. There will always be slight variations in lips, eyes, rouge, etc. "I like to look at people's faces," says Maddy.
With over 3,000 head vases in her possession, you'd think that Maddy's quest would be complete--wrong! As a collector, it's the thrill of the hunt, "finding one for herself at a great price," that affords Maddy her greatest enjoyment. One of her most thrilling buys was the purchase of a rare Mary Poppins head vase from a toy dealer for $25; Maddy later found out it was worth $500! Quit collecting head vases? Not on your life. As long as there's a chance of finding a head vase at a great price, Maddy will be there.
In addition to being featured on "Ultimate Collectors," Maddy's head vase collection made another prominent appearance when author David Barron spent an entire week photographing Maddy's jaw-dropping collection for his comprehensive book, Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide.
Have you heard of the Maddy Gordon head vase? Originally known as "Teen-Age Girl," E-8027, the head vase, which was made in the 1960s, looks so much like Maddy as a teen, that it has been dubbed the "Maddy head" by collectors. Manufactured by Enesco, it can be found as a head vase, or a head vase/ lipstick holder combo with a hole in top for holding a makeup mirror. There's a wonderful Maddy Gordon head vase/ lipstick holder for sale right now on eBay.
Not only does Maddy write books and collect head vases, she is involved in other projects as well: she organizes the annual Head Vase Convention and is also editor of the Head Hunter's Newsletter. For more info, contact: maddy.gordon@worldnet.att.net.
It is Estimated That There Were Over 10,000 Different Head Vase Designs Between the 1940s and 1970s!
Need a Quick Guide For Identifying and pricing Head Vases?
Head Vases by Numbers, by Dave and Yvonne Barron, is the answer. I just got my copy today, and I must say, I find it an extremely helpful tool for referencing head vases.
In this handy guide, Dave and Yvonne have listed over 1,500 head vases, including 1,350 pictures, to assist the collector in her "head hunting" endeavors.
In the book, head vases are arranged by numerical order (based on the item or style number assigned to them), along with a general value, enabling one to quickly reference most head vases on the market. Thumbnails and brief descriptions are also provided, as well as copycat head vases, where applicable. For further information, other books (including page number) each head vase may be found in is listed.
Toward the back of the book, there is additional information on identifying fake head vases. Links to head vase-related websites are also provided, as well as info on the annual Head Vase Convention and Head Hunters Newsletter.
For the serious head vase collector (and not so serious!), I highly recommend this valuable reference guide--don't be without it!
One more thing--two days later, and I have already put Head Vases by Numbers to the test several times. I can look up head vases so much quicker now. The icing on the cake? The book is only $10 + $2 shipping, and signed by the author David Barron himself! And shipping is fast, fast, fast! :)
Contemporary Head Vase Art
Many artists of today enjoy incorporating the beauty of the head vase into their work; here are some examples:
Head Vase Pottery
Mavis Smith, Creator of "Pot Heads"
Meet Mavis Smith, Creator of "Pot Heads" Ceramic Head Vase Planters
For artist Mavis Smith, there are just not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything she wants to do, for Mavis is a true "artist-of-all-trades."
Mavis is an accomplished painter, glass artisan, ceramic crafter, and airbrush artist. Her artfully-done hand-crafted glass beads, miniature masterpieces in their own right, may be purchased on her website, Beads by Mavis
Although Mavis' passion mostly centers around working with glass, she has recently gotten back into working with ceramics as well. Her "Pot Heads" head vase planters, another one of her passions, are a breath of fresh air, resounding with whimsy and cuteness. And, if that's not enough, they're functional as well, featuring an unglazed bisque insert that absorbs water, the perfect environment for moisture-loving plants such as african violets. Many of the planters also come with an attached tray, painted to match the head.
In creating her Pot Heads, (pun intended) Mavis rescues vintage molds destined for the landfill, breathing brand new life into them. She then repurposes the castings, hand builds, sculpts, and paints them to create fun and colorful new art pieces.
In addition to her Pot Heads, Smith sometimes creates traditional head vases from vintage molds, fashioning them into true objets d'art. Mavis' head vases range in size from 4.5" to 6" tall.
To see more of Mavis' incredible offerings, mosey right on down to her Etsy shop, Beads by Mavis.
Clayflower22 and Her Curiosities
When it Comes to Creating Her Unique Head Vase Planters, Clayflower22 Has Plants on the Brain!
One day, Clayflower22 (as she is known on Etsy), a retired high school art teacher, decided to combine her two loves: art and plants. She began creating head vase planters from antique doll heads.
What got her started on this unusual hobby? A few years ago (before her retirement), someone presented her with a big box of unfinished doll heads from a doll maker's estate sale. While pondering what to do with all those doll heads, Clayflower22 came up with an idea: she would use some of the heads in her classroom for still-life set-ups; the rest would go in her garden.
The following spring, something amazing happened: plants were sprouting up out of the doll heads! According to Clayflower22, "I decided then that doll heads would make strange and interesting planters."
Clayflower22 delights in fashioning her planters from hybrids; that is, she combines doll heads with animal bodies. The result? The "Buppy," a baby with a puppy's body, "Priscilla Quacker," a baby with a duck's body, and "Man Kat"--you guessed it--part human, part cat, to name a few.
Clayflower22's planters are not only cute as a button, they are created with care. She hand paints and glazes each one, fashioning drain holes in the bottom for good plant health; many also come with an attached tray. The wall of the planters are made extra thick to withstand the weight of the plant, potting soil, and water.
On October 25, 2007, Clayflower22 had the honor of being a featured seller on Etsy. Check out her shop, Plants on the Brain, and you'll see why. But, I warn you--You just might fall in love with one or two of her creations and take them home with you! :)
Head Vase Paintings
"Roses and Head Vase Girl" Painting by Vickie Wade
Vickie Wade's Paintings Capture Special Nostalgic Moments in Her Life
Central to artist Vickie Wade's life are her special relationships with family and friends. Her paintings, lovingly created in oil on canvas, are a reflection of many of those special nostalgic moments in her life.
Vickie has been painting since the age of 11. Her desire is to bring heartfelt joy and beauty through the paintings she creates. Wade, an extremely talented and versatile artist, has created a roster of amazing works. Among my favorites are her Christmas paintings, "Fat Chef" series, and, of course, her "Roses and Head Vase Girl" painting.
Originals as well as fine art prints are available of her work. Visit Vickie Wade Fine Art or Vickie Wade Fine Art on Etsy to see more of Vickie's lovely work.
"Hat Lady With Red Flowers," original oil painting © Mona Diane Conner 2011
Mona Diane Conner's Vivid Paintings Draw Upon Spiritual Inspiration
"We are not equal to God's divine power, yet we carry its seed within each of us."~~Mona Diane Conner
As a fine artist and illustrator, Mona Diane Conner cares deeply that people perceive what she is communicating with her art. According to Conner, "Professionally and personally, I feel that my spiritual answers inform my work."
As much at home painting miniatures as she is painting ceiling murals, Mona, who is a member of the Society of Tempera Painters as well as the Miniature Art Society of Florida, has won many awards for her miniature paintings. While she specializes in egg tempera, Conner is equally adept in a variety of mediums, utilizing pastels, oils, silverpoint, and gilding techniques to create her marvelous works.
Mona received a BA in fine art from Alleghenhy College, and a BFA in illustration from School of Visual Arts, graduating from both schools with departmental honors and artistic awards. She also received a years training (2005--2006) at the Prosopon School of Iconology, studying Russian Byzantine Icon writing. Conner has lectured on her work, and has also conducted workshops in egg tempera at New York City art schools, churches, and museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
After several decades of illustrating for most of the NYC publishing houses, Mona decided to shift her emphasis to fine art, drawing more directly upon spiritual sources of inspiration. One outcome of this are her Spiritual Paintings, of which my personal favorites are the highly detailed piece, Creation in God's Garden, and The sacred Heart of the Towers, which was created for the "Prevailing Human Spirit" Show in support of 9/11 charities for the Society of Illustrators Art Museum in 2002.
Conner's paintings have been presented in many shows over the years including: the traveling exhibition, "Egg Tempera, an Enduring Tradition," "Prevailing Human Spirit," at the Society of Illustrators Museum, a solo retrospective at Halliehurst Mansion in West Virginia, and several World Federation of Miniaturists exhibitions, including one at the prestigious Smithsonian in 2004.
Mona's paintings are truly amazing! Among my favorites are her intricately detailed illustrations, Victorian portraits, and, of course, her "Hat Lady With Red Flowers" painting.
How did Mona get started painting head vases? "Well, back in the early 1980s I bought a reproduction lady head vase and planted a spider plant in her. It stayed there so long, that over time the moisture from watering the spider plant cracked her and sadly when I dropped her (last year I think?) she fell apart into many pieces. By that time I had already begun buying vintage head vases, plus now I am enjoying painting them too!!"
Conner sells her original paintings as well as prints of her artwork in her Etsy Shop, Art by Mona Diane Conner.
To view more of Conner's work and keep abreast of her latest projects, visit her official website, Mona Diane Conner: Love Water Studio.
What Got Me Started on This Mad Head Hunting Journey?
A few days ago, I was captivated by a head vase on eBay that reminded me of Jeannie from the "I Dream of Jeannie" series of the 1960s. I bidded on it and won. You see, I have my bathroom decorated as a tribute to the "I Dream of Jeannie" show, and when I saw that "genie" head vase, I knew it was the perfect thing to bring my "I Dream of Jeannie" themed bathroom display over the top-- it has certainly lived up to my expectations. I was so pleased with my little genie that I started looking at more head vases--and, the rest is history.
I found my first vintage head vase on eBay about ten years ago--a Christmas lady head vase made by Napco. She's a gorgeous blue-eyed blonde dressed in red with a white "fur" collar and matching hat adorned with holly leaves. It was a tough fight to win her, as a big bidding war ensued. I came out the winner, although I paid a tad too much for her. I must say I have never regretted it, though; I love her so much! Later on, I added another Christmas head vase to my collection--a cute little girl clutching a package.
At the time, I didn't actually buy the head vases because they were head vases, but because they were pretty Christmas collectibles. I displayed them in a cabinet along with some vintage Christmas figurines and lady planters, most of which were made by Napco in the 1950s--'60s. Now that I'm a serious head vase collector, the Christmas head vases have been relocated to a special cabinet for displaying my head vase collection.
While I have always liked head vases, I never actually made a conscious decision to collect them until now. My obsession actually began brewing the day I purchased a big head lipstick holder girl from an antique show. Created from papier-mâché in the 1960s--'70s era, I was smitten by her Kean-esque eyes, not to mention her uniqueness. I mean, who sits around and thinks to themselves, "I think I'll design a big-head lipstick holder girl." Can we say, "off-the-wall?"
After that, I would occasionally surf eBay searching for more lipstick heads, but for one reason or another, I never bought another one. A few days ago, I was again searching for lipstick heads when the search brought up a few head vases, too; that prompted me to do a head vase search, and that's how I found my gorgeous little genie girl. My innocent little genie girl has gotten me started on a new addiction, and my poor, long suffering hubby is getting crowded out of his man cave by yet another obsession of mine.
Lipstick Head Girls on eBay
Christmas Head Vases on eBay
The "I Dream of Jeannie" Room
The "I Dream of Jeannie Room," a tribute to Barbara Eden and "I Dream of Jeannie," is a magical (as "magical" as a bathroom is capable of anyway) world where I have all sorts of genie-style bottles and a variety of perfume bottles displayed.
In a place of honor, you will see a purple hand-painted "I Dream of Jeannie" bottle, a replica of the original bottle from the TV series. There are I Dream of Jeannie salt and pepper shakers, as well as prints on the wall of my genie artwork, which is my big-eye version of the "Jeannie" (Barbara Eden) character. Hanging all over the walls are also prints of some of my other artwork; I know they don't really go with the "genie" theme, but I enjoy them, anyway.
It's hard to see, but I also have an "I Dream of Jeannie" Barbie doll displayed in the window. Scattered about the counter are various Italian decanters from the 1960s. My IDOJ bathroom is shabby chic at its best! I don't claim to have a degree in interior decorating, but I am a big fan of baubles, bangles, and beads!
Of course, the best part of my "I Dream of Jeannie" room is my Lefton genie-like head vase # 3517, which is displayed among my "I Dream of Jeannie" salt and pepper shakers.
Between all the big-eye art prints on the wall and interesting what-nots, the bathroom occupier can at at least be entertained while being detained! ;-)
Want to See More of My I Dream of Jeannie Inspired Art?
Visit This Lens! :)
What Else Do I Collect?
I collect lots of different things--I have assorted Napco and Lefton figurines and planters, as well as "made in Japan" figurines and figural planters from the 1950s era. I own a complete set of Napco birthday angels from the 1950s--January to December. I collect "instant relatives" (the ones you inherit from thrift shops, flea markets, and antique stores), as well as dolls, artwork, 1920s memorabila, perfume bottles, big-eye stuff, and more--anything that strikes my fancy, you might say.
Want to See More of My Collections? Visit My Blonde Blythe Squidoo Lens!
The Collector Poll
Head Vases: Identification and Values by Kathleen Cole
I just picked up a wonderful book to guide me in my newfound hobby, titled, Head Vases: Identification and Values. it was first published by Kathleen Cole in 1989. This is the 2007 revised edition with updated values.
The book features a plethora of head vases--all beautifully documented in thousands of color photos and organized by category, listing maker (if known) and identifying marks. This revised edition includes 250 new photographs of head vases, many of which have never before been seen by the public. Values are included to give you a general idea of what to buy or sell your head vases for. There are also a couple of new sections: One on Betty Lou Nichols, and one showing head vases with original flowers.
At 256 pages, it's well worth the modest price I paid of only $12.99, and shipping was FREE! Where did I get this gem of a book? From PrarieStreetFurniture on eBay! Head Vases: Identification and Values can also be found on Amazon.com, as well as other websites.
My copy arrived lightning-fast, and in excellent condition! I'm pleased as punch! :)
My First Head Vases, Acquired in 2000
Napco 5 3/4" Christmas Lady Head Vase--My First Head Vase
Napco (CX2348A) 5 3/4" Christmas Girl Head Vase (dated 1956)
Head Vases I Won or Purchased
February 26, 2012--NEWS FLASH!!!
--Cameo Girls "Eve, 1917 Brush With Beauty" Head Vase--
I have been admiring this gorgeous red-head art nouveau mermaid head vase for quite some time now, so I decided to buy her today (BIN on eBay). While I'm big into vintage head vases, Eve is so beautiful, that I thought I would give a new head vase a try.
I bought her from licensed dealer and top-rated eBay seller, Crystalmina.
I'll let you know how I like her when she arrives.
March 1, 2012--Update-- I picked up Eve at the P.O. today. She was well-packed and arrived lightning-fast and in perfect condition. Very pretty head vase, and the detail is just lovely--from the red poppies gracing her wavy hair, to her jewelry and silver "engraved" brush. I also noticed that this head vase (made of bonded porcelain) is much heavier that the regular porcelain ones. She has joined seven of her "sisters" in the cabinet.
February 14, 2012--NEWS FLASH!!!
--The "Blue Bow Girl"--
I just won a cutie with a big blue bow in her hair! It's the kawaii in me coming out again. Lol! I got her for the reasonable price of $36.
The pictures in the auction looked really good, and the seller stated that this head vase is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, crazing, or missing paint.
Update--February 18, 2012-- Picked up the "Blue Bow Girl" head vase at the P.O. today and am very happy with her. No chips or cracks, and her paint is bright and pretty with a bit of a shine to it. Her "sisters" in the curio cabinet welcomed her with open arms! :)
February 6, 2012--NEWS FLASH!!! I'm The Proud Owner of a Princess Di Look-Alike!--
I just snagged a cutie! She's a 7 1/2" head vase made by Lark, and she's in pristine condition!
You can find this incredible lady on the cover of David Cole's book, Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide.
What do I like best about her? She reminds me of the beautiful Princess Di! :)
Update--February 11, 2012-- My beautiful "Princess Di" head vase arrived today! I'm extremely pleased with her--absolutely gorgeous!
February 3, 2012--NEWS FLASH!!! "The Elegant Miss" Head Vase is Mine!--
She slipped through my fingers two days ago, when I bidded on another eBay auction and lost, but now I got her back--this time from another seller. The auction states that this head vase is in perfect condition, and the seller has substantial feedback, and a 100% rating.
I had seen this head vase for sale by the same seller a few days ago, but he wanted $47 + $8 shipping. Today, while searching eBay, I saw that the seller had lowered his price from $47 to $27 BIN (buy it now), so after looking over the auction description and pictures, I bought her--yay! I still had to pay $8 for shipping, which put her at $8 more than the other seller was asking, but that's A-OK with me! :) She's 5 1/2" tall and made by Enesco. I think she's lovely!
Update--February 11, 2012-- "The Elegant Miss" arrived today. When I looked at the box, I was afraid that the vase might be damaged. The tiny, pieced-together box was battered and gaping open in spots. When I opened it up, the head vase was poorly packed. She had been slipped into a very thin bubble wrap mailer, then put into a small box with very little newspaper to cushion her.
Thank goodness she wasn't dropped, because it would have been a total disaster. The Elegant Miss is in perfect shape, despite her hazardous journey. She looks great in the curio cabinet between her two purple sisters, the lovely "Princess Di," and "Valerie."
I did e-mail the seller, expressing my disappointment in the packing, stating that he needs to pack breakables much more securely in the future.
February 3, 2010-- A Little "Hippie Fairy" For My Collection--
Three days ago, I won a cute young girl head vase on eBay. I like her whimsical look, and all those pretty flowers in her hair really won me over. Maybe it's the hippie in me--lol! I also like the fact that she looks like a little fairy--without wings, that is.
Although the auction photos of the head vase weren't the best, the seller did have 100% feedback, and a substantial amount, too. Before bidding, I e-mailed the seller, asking if the head vase had any chips, cracks, crazing, or missing paint. She said no to all, so I went for it.
She was shipped 2-3, so she should be arriving any day. She's 5 3/4" tall, and made by Inarco. Isn't she sweet? I already have a name for her--she looks like an "Ariel".
January 24, 2012--NEWS FLASH!!!
I just won a head vase on eBay! She's an adorable 7" teen with purple bows in her hair by Relpo. I LOVE her! I actually thought I had lost her; when I went in to bid on her with twenty seconds remaining, I discovered that I had not signed in. Then, to top it all off, I put in the WRONG password! Can you believe it? I thought I was a goner for sure.
There were plenty of other people wanting her too--she got 24 bids! Because she is a pristine head vase, with an excellent seller, I didn't mind paying a little more than I have seen this head vase go for in other auctions.
Update! February 1, 2012-- I received the head vase yesterday (it was paid by e-check, which took a few days to clear), and I am SO impressed with her! She looks like new, with no flaws whatsoever, not even missing paint! The seller, valpink333 answered all my questions promptly and courteously, and shipped her out very quickly. When I received her, she was packed extremely well, with tons of bubble wrap and peanuts to protect her from breakage.
She is my first 7" head vase, and looks beautiful in her cabinet, along with her other head vase "sisters." I've named her "Valerie," in honor of the seller.
Relpo Teen in Bonnet Head Vase (K26069)--Acquired January 17, 2012--
I purchased this beautiful 5 1/2" head vase from a seller on eBay that had her listed for $99 BIN. She also had the option of "Make an Offer," so I made her an offer of $75, and she accepted it.
She is my fourth head vase, and my first teen head vase. I love her demure expression and her colors, which are pale pink and royal blue. She's a beauty!
Lefton Genie-Like Head Vase (3517)--Acquired January 17, 2012--
This is the head vase that got me hooked--now I'm a head vase junkie! Lol! She arrived in perfect condition--no crazing, chips, dings, or missing paint. She is an example of a head vase that has fired-on colors; her hair ornament, which has applied stones, appears to be cold-painted, however.
Made by Lefton, she comes in several sizes. Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide by David Barron pictures her in three sizes: 4 1/4", 6 1/4", and 8 1/4". This one is a medium size--6 1/2" tall.
Her upswept hair style and jeweled hair ornament brings to mind Jeannie of the retro "I Dream of Jeannie" television series. She makes a great addition to my "I Dream of Jeannie" themed bathroom.
Group shot of the "sisters." Notice how much larger Valerie is?
Six "sisters." Notice how they vary in size? The smallest is 5 1/2", the largest 7 1/2".
And . . . The Ones That Got Away
February 6, 2012--
I bidded on a cute little Lefton Valentine's head vase/ lady planter today, but got outbidded.
She's cute, but I really didn't want to go over $26.00 for her. Add another $10 for shipping, and it comes up to $36.00.
I love Valentine collectibles, but most of them go pretty high. I'm a big sucker for kawaii (cute), as is evident in my choice of head vases.
I'll probably kick myself for not going higher, but there will be others. . . . I'll keep on looking.
February 3, 2012--
I Bidded on a head vase called "The Elegant Miss" two days ago, but I should have gone higher, especially since the seller offered free shipping. It sold for $27.
I'm trying to be a wise head vase buyer--comparing auctions, looking over the photos and reading the desciptions with care--in order get the most for my dollar, but, unfortunately, I think I tried to be a little too thrifty. I like her blonde sausage curls and the pink flowers in her hair.
January 27, 2012--
Well, I was going to bid on a really nifty (and rare) head vase on eBay last night, but the bidding went so high that I didn't even get in to bid.
It was really interesting seeing how the price really jumped up those last few seconds, though. When all was said and done, the head vase I wanted got 78 bids, and a grand total of $653.07--WOWZA!
Known as "Twist Hair," she stands a mind-boggling 11" high, and can be found smack dab in the center of the cover of Cole's head vase book. I really wanted to add her to my collection, but the price was so outta sight for my budget! :(
eBay Shopper Poll
And . . . The Ones I Sent Back
2-10-2012--Ariel, the Little Hippie Fairy Heads Back Home--
Unfortunately, Ariel had to go back where she came from. Before purchasing her, I e-mailed the seller, asking if she had any chips, cracks, crazing, or missing paint; the seller assured me that the vase had none of those things.
Guess what? When she arrived, I was disappointed to see that one of her flower leaves had a noticeable chip, and her right cheek had several spots of missing paint. She also had a little crazing, but not bad. Before buying her, I did notice a little blotchiness on her right cheek, but I attributed it to bad photography and camera glare.
I e-mailed the seller, stating that the head vase had been misrepresented in the auction, and I wanted a refund. I also told her that I didn't think that I should have to pay for shipping, since the head vase was misrepresented. The seller apologized, told me to send back the head vase, and she would refund the price of the head vase + shipping. So Miss Ariel is on her way back.
Lesson learned? Never buy a head vase without clear pictures to see it by.
7 Things I Have Learned (So Far!) About Collecting Head Vases
- 1Know Your Head Vases~~ Study head vase books, search the Internet to see what's out there, and also to see what head vases are selling for. Familiarize yourself with head vases so you know what you're buying, how much to pay, and to help you decide what you like. That way, you won't make a snap decision you'll regret later. Money is a precious commodity, especially these days; you certainly don't want to throw it away on something that you are unhappy with.
- 2Buy the Best That You Can Afford~~ You may see a fabulous head vase that knocks your socks off, but if it's not in good condition, it's not a good investment. Why do I call it an investment? Because one day down the road, you may decide to downsize your collection, or do away with it completely. Poor quality head vases will draw poor sales, and you won't recap the money that you invested in your collection. It is better to have a small number of high quality head vases than a large number of head vases that are damaged.
- 3Use Common Sense When Bidding on Online Auctions Such as eBay~~ Be sure to ask lots of questions before bidding. If the seller doesn't respond to questions, chalk it up to a bad seller, and move on. If the head vase photos are sparse or poor, then don't bid. Look for chips, cracks, paint loss, discoloration, repairs, and major crazing (crackling on the surface of the paint). Make sure the seller has photos posted of all views, so you can get a good look at the head vase from all sides. Look for sellers with a good bit of feedback and a 100% rating. If the seller's rating is say, 99.8%, for instance, check her feedback to see why she got a negative. Often you will find that negative feedback isn't the sellers fault, but retaliation from a difficult buyer.
- 4Display Your Head Vases in a Safe Place~~ The best place to display your head vases is in a curio cabinet--it helps protect them from dust, damage, sunlight, and curious children. if you have no cabinet to display them in, at the very least keep them out of traffic--cattle stampedes can wreak havoc on head vases! :)
- 5Buy What You Like~~ Since you will have to look at that head vase every day, it's not too far-fetched to buy something that is pleasing to your eye. The only exceptions? Buying a head vase at a very low price for resale, or to give as a gift.
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6Beware of Fakes~~ There are tons of reproductions on the market, and buying them is OK, as long as you know they're reproductions, and are willing to pay for an inferior quality head vase. Reproductions are usually pretty easy to spot. Although many of them appear to be created from molds of the originals, one thing sticks out like a sore thumb: the bad paint job.
Fake Head Vases
More Fake Head Vases -
7Have Fun!~~ Don't forget to have fun! After all, that's what head vase collecting is all about! You might even decide to join a club with other head vase collectors--"you show me yours, I'll show you mine." Whatever you do, make the most of this fabulous hobby! ;-)
Head Vase Club
Collecting Lady Head Vases on Facebook
Get Educated! Buy a Head Vase Book (Or Two or Three)! :)
Head Vase Dirty?
According to Dave Barron's book, Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide, whether or not and how to clean a head vase depends on whether or not the paint is fired on or cold painted (painted on after the piece was fired).
Cold Painted? do NOT clean with any type of cleaner.
Fired On? Use alcohol or toothpaste to remove the dirt.
Purchase Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide to learn more.
Photos of Lady Head Vases
Who Knew the Head Vase Would Become Such a Hot Collector's Item?
Head vases were considered a cheap commodity during their heyday. Little did the head vase manufacturers know that a few years down the road, collectors would be paying outlandish sums for them.
Some rare head vases fetch thousands of dollars at auction, most notably salesman's samples, prototypes, and those with low-production numbers.
Sought-after head vases include: Disney characters such as Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Snow White, and Celebrity head vases such as Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, and Jackie Kennedy. Large head vases--which start at 8" and go all the way up to 14", are especially desirable. Can you imagine paying over $14,000.00 for a head vase? Check out some of these rare head vases.
Head Vase Shopper Poll
Shop Till You Drop
Head Vase Links--Informative, Fun, and a Few Shops, Too!
- Modern Head Hunters Prefer the Ladies
- Some quick tips on collecting head vases.
- HeadVaseCollector.com
- Your one-stop headvase shop.
- How to Identify Lady Head Vases
- A quick guide to aid the head vase buyer in identifying and purchasing head vases.
- Head Vase Repairs by Luanne Nichols Shoup
- Luanne Nichols Shoup, daughter of famous head vase designer Betty Lou Nichols, lovingly restores head vases and other pottery to their former glory. Also included are some other head vase restorers.
- Head Vases on Etsy
- A global marketplace for head vases.
- Head Vases on eBay
- Global marketplace with thousands of head vases for sale.
- Necklace and Earring Replacements for Head Vases
- Chrestina Jones, head vase and doll collector, hand makes quality replacement necklaces and earrings for head vases and dolls.
- Head Vases
- A collector enjoys displaying her head vases with fine china and crystal.
- How to Get Hard Water Stains off a Lady Head Vase
- Simple and to-the-point instructions for removing hard water stains from head vases.
- Lady Head Vase Obsession
- A woman discovers the joys of decorating with head vases.
- Collecting Head Vases
- Brief article covers the history of head vases with tips on purchasing them.
- Head Hunter's Merchandise
- Your favorite head vases on t-shirts, mouse pads, tote bags, and more.
- Betty Lou Fever
- The late Fullerton artist's ceramic head vases fire up renewed interest.
- Collecting Vintage Head Vases
- A quick run-down on purchasing head vases, with a little history thrown in for good measure.
- David Barron's Website
- Includes general head vase info, as well as fun info and photos of the annual Head Vase Convention.
- Cyberattic
- A great place for finding unique head vases.
Cameo Girls Head Vases
Who are the Cameo Girls?
The Cameo Girls, first produced in 2000 by United Design, were originally designed by Debby Kaspari (until June 2006). Each head vase is based on a specific character (there are eleven different girls and a lone boy), representing a period of two centuries in American fashion, from 1809 to 1999.
Cameo girl head vases are made differently from the head vases of old. For one thing, they have a glass tube inserted into their heads so flowers can safely be displayed, preventing damage to the head vase. They are also made of bonded porcelain, which is heavier and sturdier than solid porcelain, much like resin. Cameo head vases were created in limited numbers, and may have a retired date as well.
Apparently, when Debby Kaspari stopped designing Cameo Girls head vases, there were numerous complaints about the new designs (and prices). So, after reworking them and still getting complaints, the company decided to stop producing them; the only exception was "Carrie," a head vase specially created in 2007 for the 15th annual Head Vase Convention. A boxed set of six Cameo Girls ornaments was also released in 2007.
Read More About the Cameo Girls
Purchase Cameo Girl Head Vases At Chrystalmina.com
Cameo Girl Head Vases on eBay
Cameo Girls Poll
"Let's Face it Girls" Contemporary Head Vases
Have you ever heard of "Let's Face it Girls" head vases? Well, I didn't until today.
They are nifty little head vases with a whimsical, contemporary flair designed by artist Carol Eldridge for Michael & Company.
Each head vase sports a different tongue-in-cheek saying: "Let's Face it Girls--We Just Wanna Have Fun!," "Let's Face it Girls--Strutt Your Stuff While You Can!," "Let's Face it Girls--We're Born to Shop!," and "Let's Face it Girls--You Can Have Your Cake and Eat it Too!"
The head vases come in three different sizes: 5.5", 4.25", and 3.25", and are not only for flowers; they can also be used to hold make-up brushes, pens, candy, and other items. The "Let's Face it Girls" line of head vases are a great way to cheer up a friend or loved one, and a more creative way to show your love than greeting cards, which typically end up in the wastebasket. Get Them Here!
Everyone Needs a "Dead Head" Skull Couple Head Vase Set! :)
Just when you thought you've seen it all, someone has come out with a comical skull couple head vase set!
Put out by Glitterville, the "Dead Head" head vases are made of brightly painted ceramic, and stand up to 7.5" tall. These cuties will hold your flowers, candy, or anything else you have that needs holding. A great gift for Goth and Halloween lovers, not to mention that hard to please teen! Get Them Here!
Head Vase Poll: Old Versus New
What Do You Think About Head Vases in General?
Woman Thinking Poster for Sale on Art.Com
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KandDMarketing May 17, 2012 @ 8:04 pm | delete
- I'm NOT going to show this lens to my wife ... she's already got too many collections and projects!
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tvyps
May 2, 2012 @ 4:33 am | delete
- In this tough economy, this is the one sure way to get a"head" ha! Blessed.
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neuromancer
Apr 23, 2012 @ 5:25 pm | delete
- Nice lense, my grandpa has some old one and as kid I always to play with them, but she never let me :)
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blue22d
Apr 9, 2012 @ 2:35 pm | delete
- This has been fun. I have a similar lens as well. I have 3 very old vases all given to me by my late aunt. I have enjoyed them and have my first since I was 10 years old. I hope to pass them on to my granddaughters.
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JoshK47
Apr 6, 2012 @ 9:56 am | delete
- Very interesting! Thanks for sharing!
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designsbyharriet
Apr 1, 2012 @ 11:45 am | delete
- It is nice to see you Squidoo. I once had 300 and sold many at the HV Convention but kept what I thought were my best. Great lens.
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COUNTRYLUTHIER
Mar 16, 2012 @ 8:19 pm | delete
- This was definitely a "Now for something completely different " kinda lens! Great job. You really know your stuff and should be proud of this lens.
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Goodhairsaloncards
Mar 10, 2012 @ 10:49 pm | delete
- Interesting. Never really thought about head vases. I have to look into this.
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WriterJanis
Mar 5, 2012 @ 3:15 am | delete
- Amazing collection.
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kathysart
Feb 7, 2012 @ 1:16 pm | delete
- I made my living for 20 years with face mugs and other stuff.. soo I probably would not buy a head vase.. LOL. Hard to imagine myself sometimes sitting day after day making 80 faces a day.. ooof.. never again I am finally free. Now I will not create more than two of anything unless it is reproduced by someone else. BUT with that said.. I do appreciate these vases and send you angel blessings.
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SheWritesaLot
Feb 1, 2012 @ 8:05 pm | delete
- I think I remember my grandmother having some of these head vases around her house. Now you've got me wondering what happened to all of them. Very nice lens!
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PapaKork
Jan 29, 2012 @ 11:17 am | delete
- I learned something new today -- I had never heard of these before! Interesting lens!
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flycatcher
Jan 28, 2012 @ 9:59 pm | delete
- These are fantabulous! (Is "fantabulous" a real word? If not, it should be - just for this lens!) Of course I've seen a few head vases in my day - that little Christmas girl from the mid-'50s looks awfully familiar - but never really thought of them as a whole class of collectible. What fun you must be having!
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JaguarJulie Jan 26, 2012 @ 5:12 pm | delete
- Ah, gives new meaning to "here's looking at you kid!" I love these. My grandma had one.
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artdecoco
Jan 24, 2012 @ 8:13 pm | delete
- big eye head vases would be nice
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More Interesting Lenses by Blonde Blythe
Thank You For Stopping By. Check Back Often For Updates!
A BIG THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING FOR CONTRIBUTING TO THIS LENS:
Collecting Head Vases: Identification and Value Guide by David Barron
Head Vases: Identification and Values by Kathleen Cole
Head Vase Museum
Betty Lou Fever
A Brief History of Head Vases
About Mom by Louanne Nichols Shoup
Mavis Smith
Clayflower22
Vickie Wade
Mona Diane Conner
HGTV, "Ultimate Collectors," Maddy Gordon (December 2002)
This Lens Has Been Blessed!
Thank You Squid Angels! :)
by Blonde_Blythe
I'm a big-eye artist who paints in the traditional way--I use acrylic paint on canvas. I paint big-eye art in the tradition of Margaret Keane, but with... more »
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The Collector's Guide to Lady Figurine Planters
Amazon Price: $17.55 (as of 06/01/2012)
If you like lady planters, you'll love this book! Features over 350 photos of more than 700 planters!
The World of Head Vase Planters
Amazon Price: $161.25 (as of 06/01/2012)
This book has a five-star rating on Amazon! A great guide for the head vase collector!
12.25 inch White Lady Vase with Long Blonde Hair Opening Up flung Arm
Amazon Price: $101.99 (as of 06/01/2012)
This art nouveau style head vase is a big 12.25" tall, and cast in porcelain. The seller has a five-star rating!
