Pyrex Sculptured Ovenware (1972) 

"The only way we could improve Pyrex was to make it more beautiful," said a Corning product manager when Sculptured Ovenware debuted in early 1972.  Resembling cut crystal, round bowls embellished with a teardrop design formed the basis of the product line.  When equipped with lids, the bowls became casseroles, and a round underplate or tray was provided for each one.

Pyrex Sculptured Ovenware 2½ Qt casserole with tray or underplate.

Initially three sets were offered: 1½ Qt covered casserole & 10" tray; 2½ Qt covered casserole & 11" tray; three piece bowl set, 1½ Qt, 2½ Qt, 4 Qt.  By the mid 1970s a fourth set added six 16 oz bowls to a 2½ Qt covered casserole & tray.  A Triple Treat Set paired three 16 oz bowls with a larger 12" round tray.  A different 12" plate with a coupe shape was part of a Party Bowl Set, alongside one 16 oz bowl.  A Salad Set contained a 2½ Qt bowl, 11" tray, and four 16 oz bowls.  There might be more sizes, shapes and set combinations too.

Bowls are not marked with capacities or model numbers, but they can be identified by their diameters: 16 oz = 5½", 1½ Qt = 7¾", 2½ Qt = 8¾", 4 Qt = 10¼".  In general, Sculptured Ovenware does not have many markings at all.  Bowls and trays are branded "Pyrex" in tiny lettering, and lids are not even marked with a brand name.  Other product information that typically appears on Pyrex is also absent.

1972 brochure.  It illustrates the first three sets.

During the mid 1970s Sculptured Ovenware lids were also used with round Buffet Server shaped Corning Ware, in Merry Mushroom & Spice O' Life.  For this product line, there is a third lid which fits the large skillet and Dutch oven, but it does not fit a 4 Qt Sculptured bowl.

Sculptured Ovenware in clear Pyrex disappeared about 1979, but the shape was revived in the early 1980s with a dark brown Fireside tint.  There might be only one set made in this colour, combining a 4 Qt bowl with four 16 oz bowls.  It was offered during 1983, but the exact introduction date is not known.

Sculptured Ovenware 16 oz bowl.


Related Articles:

Tinted Clear Pyrex: Fireside, Cranberry, etc.
Corning Ware Profile: Buffet Servers 
1972 Leaflet: Creative Glass by Corning
Clear Pyrex 1915 - 1950, handles, lids & knobs
Dates for Pyrex patterns/pieces: 1960s to 1980s