Risque Produce Labels
There's a collector's market for old produce labels that decorated fruit and vegetable crates, because back in the day these labels were often quite artistic. Some of the labels were also slightly risque, because sex can sell anything, even apples and veggies.
Once cardboard boxes were introduced, these kinds of labels fell out of use.
Once cardboard boxes were introduced, these kinds of labels fell out of use.
Comments
Shipping boxes for fruit and produce were made from split wood slats and the labels glued on the ends of those boxes. I had a few summer jobs putting those boxes together where I grew up in California's Central Valley.
I believe that the art work fell out of favor because, as you pointed out Alex, cardboard boxes were cheaper and make great containers at home for stashing stuff into. However, we couldn't have such artwork on a cardboard box where little Johnnie could see and maybe get ideas.
I believe that the art work fell out of favor because, as you pointed out Alex, cardboard boxes were cheaper and make great containers at home for stashing stuff into. However, we couldn't have such artwork on a cardboard box where little Johnnie could see and maybe get ideas.
Posted by KDP on 03/10/17 at 11:25 AM
I still have 6 wooden peach crates that I store my X-Mas stuff in. They're perfect for that, with built-in handles for lifting, and they stack great. Wish I had more of them. I don't think the labels are risque, but I'll check, come December.
The "Mischief" label above is a horribly insulting ethnic reference. All the other labels are just fine, of course.
Apparently, there is such a thing as a volume bushel, if you want to be medieval.
The "Mischief" label above is a horribly insulting ethnic reference. All the other labels are just fine, of course.
Apparently, there is such a thing as a volume bushel, if you want to be medieval.
Posted by Virtual on 03/10/17 at 02:25 PM
Apparently these labels had the dual purpose of being eye catching advertisements for an otherwise boring commodity, and giving frustrated artists a creative outlet as well as paying work.
Posted by Brian on 03/10/17 at 03:46 PM
I saw a Blushing Melons label in an antique store recently.
My favorite is one I found for CHAMP Sweet Potatoes. Not risque, just a guy in old-timey football gear carrying a giant yam.
My favorite is one I found for CHAMP Sweet Potatoes. Not risque, just a guy in old-timey football gear carrying a giant yam.
Posted by Bill the Splut on 03/10/17 at 06:41 PM
The sideboob in that last ad was way before its time. 😊
Posted by d griffin on 03/11/17 at 05:00 AM
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Category: Art | Advertising