Mid-century Penguin Chrome Ice Bucket with Bakelite Handles c.1960
$295
ABOUT
Mid-century Penguin ice bucket with brown Bakelite handles and lid knob. Mostly used as ice bucket, but the piece was designed to insulate both hot and cold foods.
The penguin was the work of inventor Ralph N. Kircher. He patented the design in 1941 but wartime restrictions on aluminum meant the penguin didn’t really take off until after the war. Engraved on the underside.
- CREATOR West Bend Aluminum Co., West Bend, Wisconsin.
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1960.
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Chrome, Bakelite.
- CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use. No dents. Minor wear.
- DIMENSIONS H 8 in. W 10 in. D 8 in.
HISTORY
West Bend Co. was founded in 1911, changing to just West Bend Aluminum Company in 1961.



