Orchids of Hawaii Pineapple Tiki Mug
Ceramic decorative art / Tiki drinkware • Orchids of Hawaii; manufactured in Japan (R-11)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Tiki Americana / Polynesian Pop
Medium & Technique
Glazed stoneware/ceramic featuring a molded relief and dip-glazing technique
Creation Period
Circa 1960s - 1970s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 5-6 inches in height; cylindrical sculptural format
Subject Description
Tropical fruit (pineapple) motif used for beverage consumption, symbolizing the exoticism of 20th-century Hawaiian tourism
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible shelf wear on the unglazed foot rim, though the central glaze identifies as intact
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00
Provenance History
Mass-produced for the mid-century restaurant supply trade; widely used in Tiki bars such as Don the Beachcomber or Trader Vic's
Art Historical Significance
A staple of the Polynesian Pop movement, representing the commercialization of Pacific island aesthetics in post-WWII America
Notable Features
Incised bottom marks 'ORCHIDS OF HAWAII Japan' with mold number 'R-11'
Condition Issues
Minor abrasions on bottom rim, potential interior staining from use, and minor glaze crazing common in Japanese stoneware of this era
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only to preserve glaze; avoid drastic temperature changes to prevent further crazing