Vintage Black and Gold Ceramic Occupational Shaving Mug - 'Dr. Block'
Unbranded (Likely Victoria/Moriyama or similar Japanese/German export) · Collectibles & Antiques > Shaving Mugs
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s (Mid-Century reproduction style based on classic Victorian occupational mugs)
Material
Glazed ceramic/ceramic earthenware with 22k gold leaf accents
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible vertical hairline crack in the interior rim and some wear to the gold gilding on the handle and raised edges.
Demand Level
Niche. Specifically sought by collectors of shaving memorabilia or individuals with the surname Block.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$10.00 - $25.00 (Due to the visible interior crack and personalized nature of the name)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $60.00 (Original inflation-adjusted or specialized reproduction price)
Comparable Sales
Similar personalized non-damaged mugs sell for $35-$50. Damaged display pieces typically sell between $12 and $18 depending on the popularity of the imagery.
Description
A vintage glazed black ceramic shaving mug featuring a raised relief of a horse-drawn chariot or carriage. The mug is personalized with the name 'DR. BLOCK' in gold lettering. It features gothic-style borders and a textured handle, both accented with gold gilding. The interior is white glaze.
Key Features
Occupational/Personalized theme; dramatic high-contrast black and gold colorway; mid-century collectible appeal for barbershop decor or medical professionals.
Authenticity Indicators
Common style for mid-century giftware; lacks a bottom maker’s mark which is standard for many promotional or gift shop imports of that era. High confidence in its age as vintage.
Flaws to Note
A significant vertical hairline crack is visible on the inner rim extending downward into the body. This makes it unsuitable for holding liquids and limits use to display only. General wear on the gold trim.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (broadest reach for name-specific items), Etsy (if categorized as vintage decor), or local Facebook Marketplace (if in a region where that name is common).
Selling Tips
Highlight the 'Doctor' aspect in the title for gift-giving potential. Clearly photograph and disclose the crack to avoid returns. Use keywords like 'Antique Style', 'Barbershop Decor', and 'Personalized Shaving Mug'.