Butter Print Stamp ‘Thistle’

Late Victorian

Circa late 19th to early 20th century | England

A small hand carved antique wooden butter stamp of a thistle. This is a charming stamp with exceptional detail for its size. It has an attractive detailed border. Butter stamps were used in Victorian times to decorate butter once it had been churned (see The Gen). A wonderful addition to any kitchen to create that country kitchen style.

DIMENSIONS: Diameter of stamp face 6.8 cm, Height 7 cm.

CONDITION: In very good condition, wear consistent with an antique age and use. There are some signs of treated old woodworm and some cracks, but these do not detract at all from the stamp.

REFERENCES: For examples of similar antique butter stamps, see the antique butter stamps at the Powerhouse Museum collection, Object No. K1402 and Object No. K1135  and Object No. 85/2107-4.

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THE GEN

“It is thought that Swiss settlers introduced the butter mould to America. To produce ‘print’ butter (as opposed to butter packed in crocks and tubs) was laborious but worth time and effort, as it fetched more money at market. Popular American designs include tulips, thistles, wheat-sheaves, hearts. Some have initials and dates and others were used for advertising: ‘Good Butter–Taste It’. In the 19th century the manufacture of butter moulds became a minor trade; they were turned on a lathe and then carved by hand.” (Collecting for Tomorrow: Kitchenware, Jo Marshall, Chilton Book Company, 1976, p. 46)

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