Early Butter Mold Hand Carved Tulip Foliate Design Rare

This unusual butter mold sporting a detailed pair of tulips along with twin pomegranates presents a highly stylized design that is certainly exciting. And if that is not enough to entice you…just wait… as this mold is shaped like a bowl or tub which is a rare feature! The hand carved spoon boasting a notched end is also included.

This wooden mold dates to the early part of the 19th century and may have Scandinavian roots. The hand carvings are expertly done and one can only appreciate the craftsmanship that unfolded by the use of a well guided tool, a steady hand and of course the carvers imagination. The tulip and pomegranate elements seem to be protected by a series of concentric folk art leaves. The carved foliate detail near the bottom further enhances the design by incorporating balance to the overall look.

A chip that occurred long ago is present on the edge of the bowl and makes a splendid place for a small spoon to rest. There are also tight age related cracks on the side of the bowl that do not affect the integrity of this sound piece. A concentric raised bead that lives just below the rim lip area (collar) is just another effective feature that enhances the outside. Some minor stains are present on the inside carved areas as well as bolder stains located on the bottom base and sides of the bowl as shown. There are also tiny white paint spots on the side near the top rim. This out of round bowl is in very good overall condition for a piece this old.

Harry did it again by making a wonderful little spoon that acts as a fine compliment to the bowl. It is completed hand carved and sports a notched end feature that is commonly found in old butter paddles. I color matched the surface on the bowl to mimic the appearance for the spoon and then aged it for prosperity’s sake!

This wonderful butter mold is a must have for your existing collection or why not start a new one! It displays well, is small enough to fit anywhere and has all the makings of superlative folk art laced with primitive qualities! Enjoy!

Bitter mold measures 5 ¼” across the top, measures 2 ¼” tall and the bottom measures 4 ¼” across (right to left) and measures 4” front to back. Carved companion spoon measures 5” tall and the bowl measures almost 1 ¾” tall by almost 1” across (right to left).