Many of us grew up seeing these charming dishes in the homes of our relatives, perhaps sitting on a mantel or a kitchen shelf, adding a touch of vintage elegance to our daily lives and sparking curiosity and admiration. These vintage Hen on Nest dishes, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, evoke a simpler time when such treasures were both practical and decorative.
Dating back to the 18th century, Hen on Nest dishes were initially imported to the U.S. from England at significant expense, making them luxury items that only the wealthy could afford. In 19th century, these dishes were produced by renowned glass companies likе Westmoreland, Indiana Glass, and Fenton. They were often used as candy dishes or trinket holders, their charming hen figurines meticulously crafted to capture the essence of a country farm. The detailed feathers and expressive faces of the hens add a touch of pastoral beauty, making each piece a miniature work of art.
These dishes can vary significantly in price, with some of the most vibrant or authentic-looking pieces originating from the ’70s to ’90s. By examining the details carefully, you can often determine their age, though many lack a maker’s mark. Most pieces typically sell for $5 to $30, but particularly rare or older items can fetch $100 or more. For those looking to start a collection, there are plenty of affordable and colorful options available.
Why Do Oven Doors Shatter and How to Prevent It?
Oven doors shatter due to two main reasons: the type of glass used and imperfections within it. Most ovens use tempered soda lime glass, which is less tolerant to thermal changes, or durable borosilicate glass.
However, tiny flaws like nickel sulfide inclusions can cause the glass to break spontaneously, particularly during high heat cycles such as self-cleaning. To prevent such incidents, it’s important to handle oven doors gently, avoid using scouring tools or placing heavy objects on the door, and ensure dishes inside the oven don’t touch the glass.
Simple precautions like using soft cleaning tools and avoiding temperature shocks can significantly reduce the risk of shattering, keeping your kitchen safe and your oven in good working condition.
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