Black Chef and Maid Salt and Pepper Shakers

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Description:

1950s ceramic salt and pepper shaker set in the form of a black chef and maid. The maid is meant for the salt and the chef is meant for the pepper. The maid wears a green dress with a white hat and apron. The chef wears white pants and a white chef coat with an accompanying hat. He holds his right hand to his face.

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.