Black Chef and Maid Salt and Pepper Shakers

This catalog is an ongoing project as we continue adding new pieces and researching listed items. If you have any information about an object in this collection, please reach out to us at info@aahafauquier.org

Description:

Ceramic salt and pepper shaker set in the form of a black chef and maid. The maid holding a spoon is meant for the salt and the chef holding a rolling pin is meant for the pepper. This set appears to be repainted.

Product Origin:

Japan.

Background:

To learn more about these caricatures, read "Mammy and Uncle Mose: Black Collectables and American Stereotyping" and "How Enslaved Chefs Helped Shape American Cuisine"

Statement: We understand these objects may inflict offense through their embodiment of racist ideology by depicting stereotypical and discriminatory imagery and language. However, we hope to educate our community and encourage personal reflection through interacting and understanding the historical context of these objects, rather than ignoring them.