Collectible Spice Rack Appraisal

Vintage Franklin Mint Spice Rack with Porcelain Spice Jars

This item is a vintage spice rack set, featuring 24 individual miniature porcelain spice jars, each crafted in the charming likeness of a small house or shop, complete with a coordinating wooden display rack. The wooden rack is constructed from what appears to be a medium-toned hardwood, possibly oak or maple, with a warm, polished finish. It showcases a classic architectural design with a pointed gable top reminiscent of a house roofline, and four tiered shelves perfectly sized to hold the ceramic jars. An additional single drawer is integrated at the base of the rack, adorned with a decorative white knob and a white painted or inlaid trim that outlines the drawer face, adding a touch of elegance. The spice jars themselves are made of white porcelain, expertly hand-painted with intricate details to depict various storefronts and homes. Each jar has a different design, featuring a diversity of pastel colors such as blues, greens, pinks, purples, and yellows, used for roofs, doors, windows, and decorative accents. The names of spices, such as 'BAY LEAVES', 'PEPPER', 'MUSTARD', and 'CHIVES', are clearly labeled on the front of each house jar, indicating their contents. The small houses exhibit fine craftsmanship, with detailed architectural elements like tiny windows, doors, awnings, and even faux brickwork or siding. The lids appear to be part of the house structure, fitting snugly to preserve the spices. While no specific maker's marks are visible in the image, these sets are commonly associated with Franklin Mint, known for their collectible porcelain items. The overall condition appears to be very good, with no obvious chips, cracks, or significant wear on the porcelain jars or the wooden rack. The wood shows a slight, desirable patina consistent with age, suggesting an estimated age from the late 20th century, likely 1970s-1990s. The set represents a decorative and functional kitchen collectible, blending utility with charming aesthetic appeal.