This unique butter mold depicting a pinwheel design boasts staved construction reinforced by pewter banding. The hexagon shape (barrel form) is quite exciting leaving us with a lasting impression. Pieces such as this one made by mills in the east around 1850 were fashioned to accommodate specific size chunks of butter either 1 to 5 pounds or more.
The barrel is in very good overall condition less a small chip near the upper edge of the pewter band as shown in image 6. There are no other chips or cracks to report. All of the staves are tight, right and secure! The warm but deep brown color suggests walnut as the choice of wood used to create this interesting piece.
The mold lends a decorative “pinwheel in motion” design and possesses the same hexagon form. There is a tight crack traveling across the length as well as wood loss near the top as shown in images 1, 11 & 12. A mark from a piece of scotch tape is visible from the bottom of the stamp and may have been used to secure it to the barrel counterpart. There are a couple tiny chips to report as well located on the outside edges but it is a survivor!
The dried flowers and cinnamon sticks are included and can just be placed in the opening to add another decorative element to this great piece. This would make a perfect addition to your treenware collections because it is so unusual and shows quite well! For holiday decorating you can add a small gingerbread, greens and berries placed in the opening as well! Enjoy!
Overall height with the flower arrangement is approximately 14”, barrel by itself stands 4 ¾” tall, measures 3 ¾” across the top and the bottom. Mold measures 2 ¾” across the top, measures 3” (from point to point) and is almost ½” thick.
~Freight (Standard Mail) included, however Insurance is optional and can be purchased @ checkout ~ within the continental U.S.
