Vintage butter pats are small, decorative dishes (around 3-4.5 inches) used to serve individual portions of butter at formal dinners, popular from the late 1800s to mid-1900s, available in diverse materials like porcelain, silverplate, or glass, featuring styles from delicate florals to bold mid-century designs, and are now collected as charming multi-functional items for jewelry, coasters, or decor.

Key Characteristics

Size: Typically 3 to 4.5 inches across, perfect for single butter portions.

Purpose: Originally for individual butter servings, adding elegance to place settings.

Materials: Common in porcelain, ceramic, silverplate, glass (clear, colored), and even wood (as paddles).

Designs: Wide variety, including:
Patterns: Floral motifs, transferware (like Limoges), gold rims, or custom logos.
Shapes: Round, square, or molded into figures like flowers or bunnies.
Periods: Victorian/Edwardian excess, mid-century modern (like Fiestaware), or simple ironstone.

Collectability: Valued for their history, artistic detail, and versatility as ring dishes, soap holders, or tea bag rests.