Lenox, the tableware firm, introduced at the moment through Instagram that it’s set to lastly deliver again its coveted Spice Village assortment. The set of 24 porcelain jars is supposed to carry spices, with every designed to appear like a miniature home. Within the authentic assortment, that meant a townhouse for ginger and a Swiss chalet for pepper; it’s not clear but if or how the brand new version will differ from the unique. The gathering, which Lenox launched in 1989 and discontinued in 1993, has change into a collector’s merchandise lately, with full units promoting for upwards of $1,000 on eBay.
The Spice Village started to pattern once more in 2022, thanks, largely, to TikTok: One video, that includes a consumer who discovered the total set at a thrift retailer, picked up over 6 million views. As the inside design publication Intelligent famous on the time, the resurgence of curiosity within the Spice Village fell consistent with the continued draw of the cottagecore aesthetic, in addition to of whimsical, kitschy house decor.
As Beth Baer, the vice chairman of product growth at Lenox, advised the publication, the Spice Village was born out of shopper curiosity within the late Eighties in collectibles. Followers would get a brand new piece each different month, she defined. The unique Spice Village assortment additionally included jars meant for condiments and tea, a serviette holder, and trivets. However this curiosity in collector’s objects finally waned, Baer famous, resulting in the top of the Spice Village.
In fact, as with low-rise denims and Von Dutch hats, one technology’s trash at all times turns into one other technology’s treasure. On Etsy, a single jar would possibly run you $100. And if the Stanley Cup hoarders are any indication, the urge to gather is powerful as soon as once more amongst a sure kind of purchaser.
Lenox hasn’t introduced an official launch date or pricing but, however customers can join a mailing checklist to get extra information. For now, if in case you have a $1,000 Spice Village in your eBay basket, possibly maintain off on finalizing that transaction.