a- L: 9.0cm Diam: 6.7cm Diam handle: 1.9cm
b- L: 7.3cm Diam: 8.7cm
An intricate wooden butter press composed of 2 parts.
a- The press plate is circular with a cylindrical handle. The plate shows a negative-relief design of a swan floating on water, with leaves at its side. 2 rings surround the design. The handle extends from the back of the plate and has a flat end.
b- The lid has a circular cross-section and tapers slightly toward the top. The top edge is moulded with a ring and a scotia. The top edge is flat with a hole in the centre to accommodate the press.
Swans are commonly seen in Eastern Ontario wetlands and farms. They are symbols of loyalty, used to build trust between a farm’s brand and its consumers. Swans also represent femininity. In the 19th century, making butter was reserved for the farmwife and maids. In doing so, women took on the role of labourers who proudly provided income for their household.
