This thermos is the type of find that makes my heart go pitter-patter. Such an amazing piece of Americana! This bright Kelly blue thermos with the Bakelite yellow cap and cup set is a Universal thermos produced by Landers, Frary and Clark in the early 1930s.

The following I quote from a Cooper Hewitt article: This ca. 1917 “Universal” vacuum flask reflects simple functionality in its columnar form, the metal body embellished only by fluting that also serves as a functional ‘non-slip’ surface. The screw-on cap protects the bottle stopper and does double duty as a drinking cup. Ultimately, Landers Frary and Clark’s competitor, The Thermos Co., had better marketing savvy, and has survived to this day. In 1965, Landers was acquired by the General Electric Company. While this thermos is not of the earliest vintage from the company, it is likely late 1920s or 1930s based on the markings on the base, the composition of the glass lined interior and the Bakelite lid and cup set.

The thermos has a very pretty blue painted metal finish and a screw-on yellow Bakelite lid with two smaller cups inside and a glass liner. The original cork is missing. Everything is in really nice condition considering the age of the piece. The thermos is embossed on the silver metal bottom: Universal Landers, Frary, Clark, New Britain Conn Made in U.S.A. There is usage marking on the blue surface, oxidation on the metal rims and a swishing sound in the glass liner when shaken of the thermos. The cups also have usage marks and age staining with the smallest cup showing a crack down one side.

Wonderful, wonderful collectible and an unique addition to a thermos collection!

Dimensions:

Thermos - 14" tall (with lid on), 3 3/4" diameter base, 1 3/4" diameter top of spout
Cups - 2 5/8", 2 3/4" and 3 7/8" diameter at base
2 1/4", 2 1/2" and 3 3/4" tall