Set of Vintage, French I'deale Jars

Here are four vintage French canning jars from circa 1940. 

HISTORY: The French canning jar has been a lifesaver in various ways. It was invented during the Napoleonic wars in France as a method to preserve food for traveling soldiers. These wars spanned 15 years and required troops to stay in remote areas without regular access to food supplies. Consequently, many soldiers began to suffer from scurvy and starvation. In a desperate bid to protect their soldiers, the French government offered a reward of 12,000 Francs to anyone who could solve this food scarcity issue.

In 1806, Nicolas Appert, a candy maker from Paris, discovered that sealing food in glass containers with a metal disc and wax, and then boiling them, effectively preserved the contents. This innovation gave rise to the French canning jar we know today.

ALL ABOUT l'Ideale jars:

• Origins: The L'Idéale brand was established in France in 1930. The jars quickly became popular for home canning and preserving because they provided an effective and reliable way to store food.
• Evolution: Over the years, the design has remained largely unchanged, which speaks to its functional and aesthetic success. The brand is part of the French cultural heritage, often associated with traditional home-cooked preserves and a rustic kitchen aesthetic.

Design and Features

• Material: Made from high-quality, thick glass, which is both sturdy and transparent, allowing users to easily see the contents.
• Seal: The key feature of L'Idéale jars is their airtight seal, created by a metal clasp and rubber gasket. This seal is essential for preserving food, keeping it fresh for extended periods.
• Shape: Typically cylindrical with a wide mouth, making them easy to fill and clean. The jars come in various sizes, from small (0.25 liters) to large (3 liters).
• Closure: The metal clasp and lid mechanism is designed for repeated use. The rubber gaskets, which create the seal, are replaceable.