Van Melle Tin (1931–1949) – Exotic Birds & Original Key Lock | Rare Vintage Collectible

Rare Van Melle Tin with Exotic Birds (circa 1931–1949)

✅ Short Product Description:

• Vintage tin full of character
  Colorful, rare, and brimming with charm. This metal Van Melle tin from the 1930s–40s is a true eye-catcher as well as a functional storage container.
   
• Exotic decor featuring flamingos
  The lid showcases two graceful flamingos in a dreamy waterside landscape. On the sides, cranes fly above water lilies—a subtle nod to Japanese design.
   
• 🗝️ Original lock with key
  The working metal lock with its matching key makes this tin not only beautiful but also practical.
   
• Spacious & decorative
  Measuring 31.8 × 19.2 × 15 cm, there’s plenty of room to store your items in style.
   
• Authentic condition
  Vintage wear and patina give this piece its unique character. Ideal for collectors or as a nostalgic accent in your home.

👉 Unique item – available for immediate purchase. While stocks last!

📋 Detailed Product Description:

• Manufacturer: N.V. Dordrechtsche Metaalwarenfabriek v/h Wed. J. Bekkers & Zoon Verblifa
• Production Date: 1931 – 1949

This remarkable metal tin is an early product from Van Melle’s golden era—a colorful, functional container that captures the spirit of the interwar period and the graphic style of that time. Made by Verblifa, a leading producer of decorative packaging, and equipped with an original lock and key, this tin is a valuable item for enthusiasts of vintage design, collectible tins, and industrial history.

Exotic and decorative design
The red to orange base color gives the tin a warm and striking appearance. The rounded lid features two elegantly drawn flamingos surrounded by a waterside scene with plants, stones, and soft clouds. The sides depict flying cranes above water lilies, lending the piece a dreamy, almost Japanese-inspired character. The illustrations are detailed and harmoniously arranged, with careful attention to composition and color gradients.

Sturdy construction with functional details
The tin is rectangular with a hinged piano-style lid. A special feature is the original metal lock with matching working key, which makes the object not only beautiful but also functional—perfect for stylishly storing small items.

Generous dimensions:
Measuring approximately 31.8 cm long, 19.2 cm wide, and 15 cm high, this tin offers surprisingly ample storage space. It’s ideally suited as a decorative storage container, centerpiece, or nostalgic accent in a modern interior.

Origin and background:
Produced on behalf of Van Melle, originally based in Breskens and later Rotterdam, the company evolved from a local bakery into an international confectionery brand, known for products such as Fruittella and Mentos. The production of luxury packaging like this tin played an important role in Van Melle’s brand identity. The manufacturer, Verblifa (Association of Tin Factories), was known for high production standards and graphic quality.

Condition and collectible value:
The tin is in authentic vintage condition showing signs of use appropriate for its age. Scratches, discolorations, and minor dents contribute to its historic character. This original state makes it a prized collectible for connoisseurs of retro design and graphic nostalgia.

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