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 of Hecla kettle was known as the 'Auto Safety Kettle', and has features characteristic of art deco design.

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 with connector plug and cord positioned on a factory bench. The building where the photo was taken appears to be the interior of a factory and is reflected in the body of the kettle. The straight spout is facing left and the electric plug connection is set at the base of the kettle. The lid has an enamel handle and a steam vent. The body of the kettle rests on round wooden feet.

Physical Description

Black and white photograph adhered with sticky tape at the corners to a buff coloured paper backing.

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