Antique Crystal Butter Bell with Silver Knob – 19th Century

Beautiful and rare 19th-century crystal butter dome, fitted with an elegantly shaped silver finial. This stylish piece of antique tableware combines glass craftsmanship with authentic Dutch silverwork. An eye-catcher on a chic table setting, at a high tea, or as a showpiece in the china cabinet.

Product specifications

• Product: Butter dome / Butter cooler / Butter dish with lid
• Period: 19th century (ca. 1850 - 1880, Biedermeier period)
• Material of dish & dome: Hand-cut crystal
• Material of finial: Solid silver
• Silver hallmarks: Dutch sword mark (1814-1905) & Maker's mark "GB"
• Crystal cut: Classic olive cut and star-shaped base rosette
• Dimensions: 16.5 cm by 16.5 cm (diameter of base dish)

Description & Condition

This classic butter dome is made of clear crystal. The dome is decorated all around with a refined olive cut, which brilliantly refracts the light. The accompanying presentation dish features a decorative scalloped edge and a beautifully cut star on the base. Thanks to the raised inner rim of the dish, the dome fits perfectly and securely.

The top of the dome is adorned with a handmade silver finial in the shape of a baluster. The finial is artisanally mounted and features a fine beaded edge at the base. The authentic hallmarks are stamped on the edge of the finial, including the well-known Dutch sword (the official tax and fineness mark for small silver items) and the silversmith's mark GB.

• Condition: In beautiful antique condition. The crystal is clear and has no major damage. The scalloped edges and the fitting edge are intact (no chips). The silver finial is securely attached, is in beautiful antique condition, and has an atmospheric, authentic patina.

Historical Context

In the 19th century, butter was a luxury product. A butter dome (or butter cooler) like this was a status symbol on the tables of the well-to-do bourgeoisie. To keep the precious butter cool and fresh, cold water or ice was often placed in the deeper base dish, after which the crystal butter dish was placed inside and the dome was placed over it. The use of crystal in combination with a silver finial demonstrated the wealth and good taste of the host or hostess. The silver sword on the finial proves that this piece meets the strict Dutch silver standards of that time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the silver finial marked?
Yes, the finial contains two official stamps: the Dutch sword (used between 1814 and 1905) and the silversmith's maker's mark 'GB'.

Can this butter dome still be used functionally?
Absolutely. The crystal is hygienic, flavor-neutral, and perfectly suited for serving butter, cheeses, chocolates, or appetizers. We do advise washing the object by hand.

Does the lid fit well on the dish?
Yes, the dome fits exactly into the raised glass inner ring of the base dish, which keeps it firmly in place and prevents it from sliding.