Early 20th Century Sicilian Terracotta Pastry Mold w/ Butterfly - 4¾"

An early 20th-century Sicilian terracotta confectioner’s mold, hand formed with an oval cavity carefully carved to produce a butterfly motif in relief when unmolded. The interior is finished with a warm honey-toned glaze that settles gently into the carved contours, while the exterior reveals the pale, chalky buff of the clay with natural speckling and kiln marks. Designed for shaping fruit pastes and festive sweets, molds such as this were made in small village workshops throughout Sicily and used for seasonal celebrations and feast days. Each example is inherently unique. This piece remains in good, timeworn condition, with gentle wear to the rim, small firing imperfections, and subtle glaze irregularities that speak to its handmade, utilitarian origins.

Display it on a kitchen wall among other molds for a collected look, or rest it on open shelving with other petite terracotta molds for a curated vignette. It also serves beautifully as a small catchall on a countertop or bedside table for keys and jewelry. The mellow earthen tones and tactile surface bring a quiet, artisanal warmth to both rustic and contemporary interiors.