Set of melamine plates by Bessemer
Object No. 2013/16/104
These 1970s Australian melamine resin plates are from a collection of tableware designed between the 1950s and 1980s and collected more recenlty by John Hinds (b1950), an artist based in Melbourne. Initially intended to form part of his multi-media artworks, the plates reflect Hinds' personal taste and interest in 'retro' tableware patterns of everyday production lines popular in mid-century Australia. While most of the plates in the collection are made in ceramics, these examples illustrate inexpensive but sturdy plastic alternatives made in Australia and used in Australian homes. Coloured or white with printed fashionable patterns, durable and lighweight, they were a particularly popular choice for parties, picnics and backyard barbecues. Melmac was a brand name of dinnerware moulded from melamine resin, first made by the American Cyanamid Company, a leading American conglomerate which produced an extensive range and diversity of products. Most likley, Bessemer Melmac was produced in Australia under American license. Melamine dishes were popular both in America and Australia between the 1940s and the 1970s. These Australian examples were made by Nylex Corporation and are signed by A Wiederkehr, a designer about whom little is known. Eva Czerrnis-Ryl, 2011
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Summary
Object Statement
Side plates (4), for set, melamine, graphic designed by A Wiederkehr, distributed by Nylex Corporation, made by Bessemer Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, c. 1970-1975
Physical Description
The plates are moulded in heat resistant plastic (melamine resin), square rimless or coupe style with rounded corners and with designs outlined in black. The printed designs have a fondue/food theme, and the plates are individually coloured: orange, mustard, brown, and raspberry red. The orange plate has a design of a tumbler; two fondue forks, one holding a lump of cheese; a wedge of Emmentaler cheese; and a bunch of grapes. The design is highlighted in raspberry red, purple and white with a black outlines. The plate has the signature WIEDERKEHR. The raspberry red plate has a design of a steaming fondue pot in purple and orange over a flaming burner; a dish of lumps of cheese surmounted by a fondue fork; and a castor. The design is highlighted in orange, purple and white with black outlines. The plate has the signature WIEDERKEHR. The brown plate has a design of a fondue pot with grapes; a fondue fork; a corked wine bottle; and a mandolin. The design is highlighted in turquoise, mustard, and white with black outlines. The mustard plate has a festive design of a tumbler; bread; grapes; and a monsterio deliciosa leaf. The design is highlighted in brown, green and white with black outlines. The plate has the signature WIEDERKEHR.
DIMENSIONS
Height
17 mm
Width
195 mm
PRODUCTION
Notes
Made by Bessemer, Sydney, Australia, c.1970-1975
HISTORY
Notes
Part of John Hinds Collection.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of John Hinds, 2012
Acquisition Date
7 February 2013
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