Mid-Century Ribbed Glass Salt & Pepper Shakers — Hazel-Atlas Glass Co., Wheeling, West Virginia — Circa 1940–1955
Viridian Eclection
The Shakers
A classic pair of ribbed clear glass salt and pepper shakers produced by the Hazel-Atlas Glass Company, circa 1940–1955. With their clean vertical panel design and original chrome-plated metal screw caps, these shakers epitomize the utilitarian elegance of mid-century American glassware—durable, modern, and designed for everyday domestic life.
These were commonly used in diners, soda fountains, and postwar American homes, prized for their sturdy pressed glass bodies and timeless symmetry.
Design & Construction
→ Pattern & Form: The cylindrical bodies feature vertical ribbing or “paneled” sides that catch and reflect light, paired with a scalloped base edge—a subtle design flourish typical of Hazel-Atlas pressed glass.
→ Material: Clear pressed soda-lime glass with molded seams and a heavy base for stability. The screw-top metal caps (tin or aluminum alloy) are original mid-century hardware, often supplied with Hazel-Atlas household lines.
→ Technique: Produced by automatic bottle molding machines—a hallmark of Hazel-Atlas’ efficiency during the 1940s, when the company specialized in both utilitarian and decorative household glass.
→ Functionality: Designed to balance perfectly in the hand and withstand daily kitchen or restaurant use.
Dimensions
Height: 3¾"
Diameter: 1¾"
(Measurements within ⅛ inch)
History & Provenance
Founded in 1902 in Wheeling, West Virginia, the Hazel-Atlas Glass Company became one of America’s largest and most influential producers of consumer glassware by mid-century. Best known for their Depression-era colored glass, refrigerator jars, and Diner Series shakers, Hazel-Atlas supplied both domestic consumers and commercial restaurants.
After World War II, as American dining culture shifted toward casual and home-centered meals, Hazel-Atlas’ designs balanced modern utility with restrained ornamentation—exemplified by these ribbed shakers.
The company merged with Continental Can Company in 1957, marking the end of its independent production era.
Condition
In very good vintage condition, with clear glass, intact ribbed detailing, and light surface wear consistent with age. The metal caps show mild patina but retain full functionality and fit securely.
Their minimal form, subtle sparkle, and historical context make these shakers appealing for both collectors and stylists. They serve equally well as usable tabletop accents or as part of a nostalgic mid-century kitchen vignette.
Product Details
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Maker | Hazel-Atlas Glass Company |
| Origin | Wheeling, West Virginia, USA |
| Year | Circa 1940–1955 |
| Material | Pressed clear glass with metal caps |
| Style | Mid-Century American / Dinerware |
| Height | 3¾ inches |
| Condition | Very good, light patina on caps |
| Provenance | Hazel-Atlas utilitarian glass line |
Why It’s Special
This Hazel-Atlas salt and pepper set embodies the charm of postwar American design—simple, honest, and beautifully made. Their ribbed geometry and gleaming metal tops evoke the golden age of diners, soda fountains, and 1950s home kitchens, where craftsmanship met daily ritual in glass and chrome.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Visit the Eclection on Tuesdays, 10 am to 4 pm.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
