A wonderfully preserved vintage Portuguese electric toaster by MASA – Metalurgia Artística of Águeda, dating most probably from the late 1960s or early 1970s. MASA was established as a company in 1966, making this an interesting example of Portuguese domestic and industrial design from the period.
Made in stainless steel and set on a substantial grey base, the toaster has a particularly charming manual design, with hinged side panels opening to reveal the internal toasting racks and heating elements. Its simple, functional construction and rounded metal casing give it a distinctive mid-century appearance.
What makes this example especially appealing is its remarkable completeness: it retains its original illustrated box and original guarantee certificate, both increasingly difficult to find with everyday electrical appliances of this age. The toaster is in very good vintage condition and has been tested and is working.
This piece comes from an old Portuguese solar, where it was preserved amongst the household contents. Today it is as attractive as an object of design as it is as a piece of social history — particularly suitable for collectors of Portuguese design, vintage kitchenware and unusual domestic appliances.
Age-related signs of use and storage are visible, including light marks and patination consistent with its age. The original box also shows some wear around its edges and corners.
Dimensions: approximately 20 cm high × 18 cm wide x 15 cm depth.
weight: approximately 1.3 kg.
