Corning Ware Profile: Classic Black (1990) 

The first pieces of Classic Black Corning Ware were available in the autumn of 1990, but it was not until the spring of 1991 that a $10 million advertising promotion drew attention to the new product.  A brochure placed in national magazines showcased products from all of Corning's brands, including Corelle, Visions, Pyrex, Revere, and Corning Ware. 

Classic Black F-5 1½ Qt (1.6 L) round casserole.

In particular, black was the newest colour trend, and to the tune of "That Old Black Magic", television commercials presented black as an elegant fashion statement.  Corelle's Madrid and Silk & Roses were featured alongside Corning Ware's Classic Black.

Classic Black Corning Ware is tinted, meaning that the glass-ceramic itself is black, and it is not just a colour applied to the exterior.  Different from ordinary white Corning Ware, the black version is almost transparent under bright light.  Some pieces are thinner than others and can be seen through very easily, while thicker pieces yield only a faint glow.  When it is well lit, a deep ruby colour is revealed.

Looking through the bottom of a Classic Black round casserole in direct sunlight.

Classic Black shapes are borrowed from French White, but it does not appear in as many sizes as French White does.  All known shapes & sizes are listed here, but there might be others too.  This colour was on the market for two to three years.

F-5 = 1½ Qt round (1.6 L)

F-3 = 10" pie plate / quiche pan (24 cm)

F-2 = 2½ Qt deep oval (2.8 L)

F-6 = 1½ Qt shallow oval (1.8 L)

F-6/MC-6 = 1½ Qt divided shallow oval (1.8 L)

F-4 = 2½ Qt shallow oval (2.5 L)

Classic Black F-6/MC-6 divided dish.

Two model numbers appear on the bottom of some divided dishes.  On the outside, it is identical to an F-6 non-divided shallow oval, and the divided dish is marked with F-6 as well.  When this shape first appeared, it was placed among Corning's microwave cookware products rather than the French White line, so it might carry the number MC-6 too.  Literature and packaging state that it holds 24 oz (700 ml), but its markings contradict that.


Related Articles:

Corning Ware Designer Casseroles (1977)
Corning Ware French Bisque/Bleu (1982/83)
Corning Ware Delicious (1992)