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In the 19th century, the table had to be properly set and everything, including the toast rack, had its own position. These items appeared at a time when there was an emerging middle class who used food and dining etiquette as a way of differentiating themselves. The porcelain toast rack was thus not merely an item of kitchen ware, but a sign of the family’s concern with the right way of doing things in the dining area.
Currently, porcelain toast racks are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance and aesthetic value. These pieces are commonly bought from antique stores and are kept as collectibles and for their nostalgic value as symbols of the past. These racks can be quite delicate because of their age and because they are made from porcelain, and collectors are very careful when handling them.
Aside from their function as toast holders, these toast racks can be repurposed in modern homes and are used not just for holding toasts but also as organizers for mails, bills, or even as holders for arts and crafts materials. They are still popular among people who are fond of retro style.
Thus, the antique porcelain toast rack represents a link between two worlds and reminds people of the art of dining and the rules of etiquette of the past while being a functional and decorative object in the contemporary world. It makes one think about how much effort was put into each and every activity of the day and makes one wonder whether people are losing the ability to appreciate the simple things in life.
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