Everyone Owned It In The '60s — Now It's The Funky Jar Set We Want On Our Kitchen Counters

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Instead of the simplicity of modern decor, give the bold and unique styles of the 1960s a try for your kitchen decor. Some of the funkiest and most valuable trinkets to look out for the '60s from thrift stores belong to an iconic brand called Holt-Howard. Launched at the end of the '50s, the Pixieware line from Holt-Howard started a sensational new trend in ceramic kitchenware. Each piece features the head of a little elfin character with an impish expression, ranging from gleeful to mischievous. These "pixies" became so popular that other manufacturers created their own versions, such as Davar's oil and vinegar cruets. 

Picking out accessories to create a retro-style kitchen is a lot more fun with the whimsical lineup of Pixieware characters to collect. Holt-Howard Pixieware included 16 different pieces of curvy jars with funky scripts labeling the item inside. Many of these jars came in two pieces, with a flat, triangular-shaped face for the lid handle. The lids lifted up to reveal "Spoofy Spoons" beneath, to allow you to scoop condiments out.

Examples of pieces to look out for include the first ones introduced in 1958: Jam 'n Jelly, Ketchup, and Mustard. The Jam 'n Jelly jar features a blonde-haired figure with rosy cheeks, while the Ketchup and Mustard jars feature orange-faced and yellow-faced figures, respectively. Others in the original lineup include pieces designed to store instant coffee, sugar, and cream. But Holt-Howard expanded to include many more options, including a Cherries jar for maraschino cherries. Characteristic of these offbeat jars, the Cherries piece features a face with a cherry nose and a surprised expression. Holt-Howard also expanded into entertaining with a set of 3 for cocktail condiments: Olives, Onions, and Cherries.

To this day, the bold shapes, bright colors, and cartoonish features of Pixieware remain highly recognizable among midcentury modern design enthusiasts. In addition to being nostalgic pieces, original Holt-Howard Pixieware is highly collectible. You can add these quirky jars to your table alongside a vintage dishware brand, like Franciscan Ware's Starburst line, to bring your kitchen retro charm. While expanding your collection, especially at thrift stores, make sure to double-check for damage. The delicate necks and spoons of these jars frequently show chips or cracks. Another problem is finding jars with mismatched lids and bodies.

Notably, Holt-Howard manufactured and imported their ceramics, including Pixieware, from Japan. The bottom side of jars often indicated the place of origin as Japan, as well as the manufacturer and date with an ink stamp. The label is a good way to keep an eye out for Holt-Howard instead of the multitude of other brands that started making their own version of Pixieware in the '60s. Pieces were sold at reasonable prices at the time, with individual jars available for $1. Today, authentic Holt-Howard Pixieware sells for over $100 depending on the piece and its condition. An original Ketchup jar is available on Etsy for $110, while an Instant Coffee jar is available for $395 on eBay. Rarer pieces like the Honey or Chili Sauce jars can be upwards of $500.

There are also newer examples of Pixieware, designed with the iconic midcentury modern style. A partnership involving former Holt-Howard creators led to the release of second-generation Pixieware, including a winking cookie jar. This limited-run lineup from Grant Howard Associates was popular, but not to be confused with the original Holt-Howard Pixieware that started an enduring trend.