Bakewells mixing bowl
made in Sydney, Australia 1930s
Bakewells started production in 1884 and like so many potteries, moved away from making industrial ceramic products -like bricks and pipes- to domestic wares in the early part of the twentieth century. By the early 30s Bakewells was making pudding bowls and nested mixing bowls in multi colours- all to meet the insatiable demand of the new middle class. Bakewells is now very well known and very collectible.
Large mixing bowls like this one, with a pouring lip, are now rare. The size, its incised rings – and the fact that it’s in tact without any chips are in its favour. I think it looks great with these flowers…although not its primary function – it just goes to show how many uses these bowls have.
This mixing bowl is for sale: $AUD85
re:retro 
The objects are always fun to see, but the real gem is your photography. Nice work!
why thank you! i will pass on your compliment to my photographer!
Well, who wouldn’t prefer to make bowls than bricks! I haven’t seen any like this with the spout, I suppose they break or chip more easily?
yes, i think you’re right: the pouring lip does make the rim more vulnerable and these larger bowls are now very hard to find. it’s so exciting to find one!
This is wonderful-I love the lines and simplicity of the bowl.
yes, it is quite beautiful isn’t it? domestic ware like pudding bowls were made with such design and finesse in the 30s and 40s…i don’t know if itthink the same care goes into contemporary ware.