weekend picnics with vintage picnic sets

I found this vintage English picnic set on the weekend and couldn't believe how complete and original it is. I particularly like the glass jars, the tin sandwich boxes and the spotty thermoses. Not to mention the suitcase style case with the original keys! I would estimate this picnic set to be from the 1950s. This is a cane set that we already had in store. The cups stack together to save room in the basket. Whilst there are four cups and plates, I would think this set would be more suited to a little romantic picnic for two.

We also have this set in store. It is an English Brexton picnic set and each piece is marked Brexton, including the base of the glass jars. Again, the cups stack neatly together, and the plates and saucers are kept safe with leather straps. It is again remarkedly complete and original. Perhaps this is because it comes from an era where hard worked-for possessions were more valued and cared for? Or because objects were made to last a lifetime? Probably both...

These sets are also made by the English Brexton company and were pictured in the Spring 2010 Donna Hay magazine. The larger set is very similar to the Brexton that we have in store, with the same bakelite swivel catches and handle. Donna Hay titled this page "picnic in style" and goes on to say "this time of year is about enjoying the outdoors in style and these vintage picnic sets are what it's all about. I'm drawn to their delicate floral patterns and elegant cutlery that suggest enjoying outdoors doesn't mean table etiquette should be left inside. I found both sets at antique stores over the years and fell in love with their demure and nostalgic appeal...".

And speaking of lasting a life time, these English picnic sets dating from the Edwardian period (c.1900) have all sold at Bonham's auction more recently. My favourite is the vellum suitcase model (the cream set). Some of these examples have sold for around $5000! Although they are ultra sophisticated and definitely worth a large sum, I think it makes our $95 set look like a real bargain!