One Rare Pyrex Bowl Isn't Just A Collector's Dream, It Looks Gorgeous As Countertop Decor

Vintage Pyrex can function as display pieces or everyday dishes, depending on the age and value of the items. Certain hard-to-find or moderately rare pieces are both beautiful and functional, featuring elegant lines, intricate designs, and cheerful colors that make them great conversation pieces. One such promotional Pyrex Cinderella bowl is the perfect example of a rare Pyrex dish that is a must-have thrift find for its beauty as countertop decor and its functionality as a salad bowl.

The 4-quart Pyrex Cinderella salad bowl was manufactured briefly in 1960 in a deep teal color. The Cinderella bowls are notable for having handles that double as pour spouts, making it easy to mix batter or liquid ingredients for transfer to a baking dish. This particular bowl is unusual in that it was marketed as a salad bowl rather than a mixing bowl, and even came with glittery serving tongs. The bowl's design is also interesting: It features a large white repeating pattern of leaves and fruits like pears, apples, and cherries that spans the circumference of the bowl (leading to its "Fruit Salad" nickname).

However, one of the design elements looks like the outline of a seated baby holding onto a leaf, which is why some collectors call this the Hidden Baby Bowl or Fetus Bowl. The combination of the unique color, design, and purpose along with the surprising hidden baby image have made this vintage Pyrex piece highly sought after. Although it isn't particularly rare or necessarily very valuable, the pattern was only produced for one year, so it's considered a find by collectors.

The value of a vintage Pyrex piece depends heavily on its condition and how rare it is. Because this bowl isn't particularly rare, you can find listings ranging from $32 to $98 on sites like eBay and Etsy. In the past, the bowl has sold for as much as $99 on eBay, but most completed listings range from between $23 and $60. The value of this bowl rests primarily in the condition of the paint. Paint chips, cracks, scratches, or faded color due to poor storage, frequent handling, or dishwasher use can diminish its value. A bowl that is in near-perfect condition or that comes with the original packaging and the salad tongs will fetch a much higher price and be more appealing to collectors.

If you own one of these genuine vintage Pyrex dishes, you shouldn't be afraid to use it or display it with pride. Just take care not to damage it, and always hand wash it to preserve the color and pattern. It makes a great centerpiece for a table, and is perfect for holding fresh fruit or flowers. It can also be used for its intended purpose: as a serving bowl for green or fruit salad. If you're in the market for a vintage Pyrex Cinderella bowl, check your local thrift stores, yard and estate sales, and online vendors like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Etsy. Be wary of inflated pricing due to local demand, and instead sort listings by price and read descriptions carefully.