The Rare Vintage Kitchen Set From The 1930s Everyone Wants To Get Their Hands On

Vintage items are more than just relics from the past. Their unique charm adds a touch of character to any space, and in an era when everything seems mass-produced, vintage is even more meaningful. Adding antiques to your kitchen is one of the secrets to making your space cozy and curated to who you are, with their indispensable quality that lifts the mood in the entire space. It's no wonder collectors reach for one-of-a-kind pieces. One particular sought-after find that has been all the rage is the Herend Apponyi flower porcelain collection — and this rare fine china kitchen set from the 1930s is as exquisite as it sounds.

According to Hunker's exclusive interview with Dr. Lori Verderame, Ph.D., an expert antiques appraiser, the main attraction is, of course, the flowers. The pattern showcases features that make it instantly recognizable. "The Apponyi flowers feature a central bouquet with floral sprays ... the pattern [was] derived from the Indian Flower Basket pattern of the 19th century ... highlighting the peony flowers of the pattern," Dr. Verderame told Hunker. While the color of the Apponyi can vary, the peony bouquet remains the focal point. One way to tell if your vintage china is actually valuable is by taking a peek at the bottom, which should include a number as well as a trademark. Despite its subtlety, to the untrained eye, it might look like any other vintage china on the market, so what makes it special?

Vintage kitchenware can be sourced from websites like eBay; just a quick search gives you thousands of results. So, why obsess over the Herend Apponyi flower porcelain? Because of its rarity, delicate craftsmanship, or intricate detail? For one, the brand has been around for almost two centuries. To procure a piece of Herend is like purchasing a piece of art, and its significance matters if you value high-end, royalty-approved creations. 

The Apponyi collection has a unique backstory, and it's perhaps one of the reasons why it's so revered. Count Apponyi, an influential statesman in Hungary, had commissioned Herend for a lavish 60-piece dinner set for a gala. His request was originally an Indian Basket pattern, but due to the lack of manpower, a simpler take on it was suggested — which, as you can tell, Count Apponyi approved of. Evidently, that's where the name of the coveted kitchenware came from.

A modern Apponyi kitchen set from Herend costs a little over $2,000, while vintage sets are half the price, up to $5,000 — though, we wouldn't be surprised if it's being sold for more. If you stumble upon a set, especially at a steal, don't let it go. It could be a fancy addition to your mid-day tea break or a creative way to decorate open shelves, and you'll have a conversation starter that will always be the belle of the ball.

Static Media owns and operates Chowhound and Hunker.