Object Name
Press, Butter
Materials
Wood
Catalogue Number
2759
Dimensions
Length 15.4cm x Diameter 10.0cm
Description
A thin wooden lollipop style butter press with an intricate geometric design. The press plate is round with a star shape design in the middle and a series of curved lines around the outside. A short flat handle is attached to the side of the press plate.
History
Butter mold patterns were unique to the farm that used them. They were usually hand-carved by farmers or local craftspeople. Geometric patterns like this one differed from the traditional faunal and floral designs, but they ensured that the farmer’s trademark was instantly recognizable. Furthermore, wooden presses had to be replaced often, as they were exposed to moisture and salt. Geometric patterns could have been easier to replicate when carving new molds.
