Summary

Black and white photograph of a nickel plated 240 volt AC electric kettle with removable lid and enamel handle produced by Hecla Electrics Pty Ltd, at their South Yarra factory in Melbourne, in the 1930s. This model was known as the 'Auto-Safety' Kettle.

This photograph is from an album containing 255 black and white photographs depicting electrical appliances, showroom displays, factory interiors and advertising material relating to Hecla Electrics Pty Ltd. It is part of the Hecla collection of photographs, documents, products, manuals and promotional materials from the Hecla Electrics factories in Melbourne. This collection dates from the late 19th century to the late 20th century and was acquired in 2004 from the current owner of the Hecla Electrics brand.

Hecla Electrics manufactured and distributed a wide range of domestic and commercial electric appliances products to Australasia, such as heaters, kettles, toasters, stoves and water heaters. Its client base included households, commercial businesses such as cafés, hospitals and offices, as well as the military. The company promoted its goods through advertisements in home magazines and displays in shop windows, home shows and the 1935 All-Electricity Exhibition. Hecla Electrics became a household name in Melbourne during the 1920s and remained a popular Australian brand until the late 20th century.'

Description of Content

Photograph of an electrical kettle. The kettle is the only subject of the photograph and is set on a neutral background. The building where the photo was taken - possibly the Hecla South Yarra factory - is reflected in the body of the kettle. The long, curved spout is facing left and the electrical plug connection is set low at the base of the kettle which rests upon wooden ball feet. The lid has an ornate handle and a steam vent.

Physical Description

Black and white photograph adhered with sticky tape on each corner to a buff paper backing.

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