Dinnerware Diary: Wizard of Oz Collectibles

Hello from Ross and Pinot the Blog Dog! Released in August 1939, the motion picture "The Wizard of Oz" is being celebrated in 70th anniversary DVDs, high definition films and videos, Blu-ray releases, online newsletters, blogs, chat groups, cable TV, print and broadcast news stories, and more. Many consider the movie to be among the best 10 films of all time.

Here are some out-of-the-ordinary gifts to add to the collection of a "Wizard of Oz" fan, whether it's for your own collection, or a gift for someone special.

This collector's plate bears a wonderful likeness of the young Judy Garland, just 16 years old when "The Wizard of Oz" was released.

"Dorothy," Hamilton Collection "Portraits from Oz."

Did Margaret Hamilton nail that "Wicked Witch of the West" role, or what? I still get goosebumps when I hear that trademark cackle. Hamilton, a character actor known for her plain looks and spinster manner, remained independent of the studios her entire career. She once joked in an interview: "I was in a need of money at the time, and my agent called. I said, 'Yes?' and he said 'Maggie, they want you to play a part on the Wizard.' I said to myself, 'Oh Boy, The Wizard of Oz! That has been my favorite book since I was four.' And I asked him what part, and he said 'The Witch' and I said 'The Witch?!' and he said 'What else?'"

"Wicked Witch of the East," Franklin Mint "Wizard of Oz."

Now this is our kind of witch - actress Billie Burke played the role of Glinda, the Good Witch in "The Wizard of Oz." Remembered for her beauty and lilting voice, Burke was 53 years old when she played the part of Glinda. She was fond of remarking, "Age doesn't matter, unless you are cheese!"

"No Place like Home," Lenox China "Wizard of Oz."

Actor Bert Lahr left his New York school to join a vaudeville act at the age of 15. Successful on stage and screen, he played the role of the Cowardly Lion in "The Wizard of Oz." In a delightful figurine from Department 56, he's crowned King of the Forest, reprising the scene from the movie.

"King of the Forest," Department 56 "Wizard of Oz."

Pinot reminded me not to omit the most important star of "The Wizard of Oz," Toto. In Frank Baum's book, Toto was a male, but in the movie, his role was played by "Terry," a female Cairn terrier. Pinot always says if you want a job done right, get a woman to do it!

If you have a question or comment about china, crystal, flatware (sterling, silverplate, stainless), or collectibles, contact us at

ross.howell@replacements.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Ross and Pinot the Blog Dog