Diamond Block Covered Butter Dish – Antique Flint Glass

Antique flint glass covered dish made during the Early American pressed glass period (EAPG 1825 – 1910).  Homemakers, servants and/or slaves made their own butter from milk. It was a time consuming process and butter was considered a luxury food. Beautiful dishes were made to present the butter at the dining table. This rare table service butter dish is an excellent example.

Probably made by George Duncan & Sons / U.S. Glass circa 1880, pattern called Diamond Block, also known as Diamond Waffle, also known as Patricia. Other possible makers are Westmoreland Glass, pattern Gillinder, circa 1889; and Heisey made a limited pattern like this called ‘mitered diamond’. The shape of the knob points directly to Duncan and we are 90% sure it is by Duncan.

Made of ‘White Glass’, a term used to describe antique flint glass. Flint glass is a very hard glass, and reflects a white sparkle. If broken, it separates into chunks. Usually made with quartz in the recipe.

Table service butter dishes are sized-down to accommodate about 1/4 lb. Doubles as a cheese, cavair, etc. server. This scarce beauty measures 5″ round and 3″ tall, weighs 1 lb. It is in near perfect condition. Amazing. The only sign of age is the thick, complete band of bottom-wear (from surface contact) on the seat ring and a small thin sliver off the inner bowl ring which holds the dome in place. Nearly invisible but can be felt. Dome was made with a 4-part mold, base was pressed.