Celluloid Dresser Set Value Guide

These antique multi-piece grooming sets represent the early 20th-century transition to synthetic materials, serving as an affordable alternative to genuine elephant ivory. Often marketed as 'French Ivory' or 'Pyralin,' these sets became iconic staples of Victorian and Art Deco dressing tables across the United States.

What affects the value of Celluloid Dresser Set?

• Completeness of the set, including matching hair brushes, clothes brushes, mirrors, and manicure tools.
• Physical condition of the celluloid, specifically looking for signs of 'celluloid rot' or cracking which significantly lowers the $45-$50 value.
• The presence of original natural bristles and the clarity of the mirror glass.
• Intricacy of the Art Deco or Victorian styling and the consistency of the cream-colored finish across all pieces.

How to Identify Celluloid Dresser Set?

• Look for the characteristic 'French Ivory' graining, which consists of parallel lines designed to mimic natural ivory growth rings.
• Check for trade names such as Pyralin or Celluloid stamped on the handles of mirrors or the backs of brushes.
• Inspect the construction for natural bristles, which were commonly used in authentic 1910-1930 era hair and clothes brushes.
• Perform a gentle visual inspection for the cream-colored patina typical of early synthetic plastics from the United States.

History of Celluloid Dresser Set

Celluloid, often marketed under trade names like French Ivory or Pyralin, was the first synthetic plastic. It became immensely popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as an affordable substitute for genuine elephant ivory. These sets were a staple of Victorian and Art Deco dressing tables, typically including hair brushes, clothes brushes, mirrors, and manicure tools.