Egg cups have been a staple at breakfast tables for centuries, and vintage egg cups have become a popular collector’s item among antique enthusiasts. The ceramic egg cup was first introduced in the 18th century and was considered a luxury item due to the high price of ceramics at the time. Today, egg cups remain a popular item, and vintage egg cups, in particular, have become increasingly sought after. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of egg cups and why they’ve become a prized possession for collectors.
What are Egg Cups?
In simple terms, an egg cup is a small dish or cup that is used to hold a boiled egg. It is designed to keep the egg upright and prevent it from rolling around on a plate. Egg cups can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, glass, and metal. They come in many shapes and sizes, from simple designs to intricate patterns and decorations.
What were Egg Cups used for?
Egg cups were traditionally used to hold an egg that had been soft-boiled. The top of the egg would be gently tapped off with a spoon, and the soft, warm yolk would be eaten with a small spoon. Egg cups were also used to hold boiled eggs that were eaten cold, often as part of a lunchtime salad.
What are Cups that Hold Eggs Called?
Egg cups are simply called egg cups. However, in some countries, such as Britain, they are also known as egg holders.
Are Egg Cups a British Thing?
Egg cups are closely associated with British breakfast culture and are a common sight on breakfast tables throughout the country. However, egg cups are also popular in many other countries, including the United States, where they are often used to serve deviled eggs.
Are Egg Cups worth anything?
Vintage egg cups can be worth a great deal of money, depending on their age, rarity, and condition. Antique porcelain egg cups can be particularly valuable, with some pieces fetching thousands at auction. However, the value of an egg cup is ultimately determined by the market, and the demand for a particular piece can fluctuate over time.
Vintage Ceramic Egg Cups
Ceramic egg cups are perhaps the most common type of egg cup, and they come in many different styles, shapes, and colors. Some ceramic egg cups are plain and simple, while others are elaborately decorated with hand-painted designs. Vintage ceramic egg cups are particularly popular among collectors, who appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into their creation.
Vintage Glass Egg Cups
Glass egg cups are less common than ceramic egg cups, but they can be just as beautiful. Vintage glass egg cups often feature intricate designs and patterns, and they come in many different colors and shapes. While glass egg cups may be more fragile than ceramic egg cups, they are still highly prized by collectors.
Antique Soft Boiled Egg Holder
While egg cups are traditionally used to hold soft-boiled eggs, antique soft-boiled egg holders are a less well-known alternative. These holders consist of a small dish with a handle and are designed to hold an egg that has had the top removed entirely. The dish is then held over a piece of toast or bread, and the egg is eaten directly from the holder. Antique soft-boiled egg holders are an interesting and unique addition to any collection.
Vintage Egg Tray
For those with a larger collection of vintage egg cups, a vintage egg tray can be a useful and attractive way to display them. Vintage egg trays come in many different shapes and sizes, from simple wooden trays to elaborate silver-plated designs.
Antique Porcelain Egg Cups
Antique porcelain egg cups are some of the most sought after by collectors. These egg cups are often intricately designed and feature hand-painted patterns and decorations. Some antique porcelain egg cups were made by famous manufacturers such as Meissen and Wedgwood, and these pieces can be worth a great deal of money.
Tips for Collecting Vintage Egg Cups
If you’re interested in starting a collection of vintage egg cups, there are a few things to keep in mind:
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Decide on a theme: There are many different types of egg cups, so it’s a good idea to decide on a specific theme for your collection. You could focus on a particular material, such as ceramic or glass, or on a particular design or manufacturer.
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Research prices: Before you start buying, do some research into the prices of vintage egg cups. This will give you an idea of what to expect to pay and will help you avoid overpaying for a piece.
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Check condition: When buying a vintage egg cup, it’s important to check its condition carefully. Look for cracks, chips, and other damage that could affect its value or use.
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Mix and match: One of the joys of collecting vintage egg cups is that you can mix and match pieces to create a unique and eclectic collection. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and designs.
Conclusion
Vintage egg cups are a beautiful and nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate their beauty, egg cups are a charming addition to any home. From simple ceramic designs to ornate porcelain pieces, there’s a vintage egg cup out there to suit everyone’s taste and budget. So, why not start your own collection today and enjoy a little piece of history every morning at breakfast time?