Early–Mid 20th Century Terracotta Butter Bell w/ Original Glass Insert - 7½"

This terracotta butter keeper from southern France dates to the early to mid-20th century and exemplifies practical rural kitchenware made before widespread refrigeration. The cylindrical dome is carved with a crisp geometric grid and topped with a petal-form finial for easy handling, resting neatly on a shallow matching saucer. Inside, the piece retains its original fitted glass insert—an increasingly rare survival— which held the butter while the hollow cavity between the double walls of the terracotta dome was filled with water through small holes at the top, creating a cool, stable environment that helped preserve freshness.

The warm red clay shows a pleasing, matte surface with gentle wear throughout, including small chips to the saucer rim and light surface abrasions consistent with age and everyday use.

Charming on a kitchen counter or breakfast table, it can still be used for butter or repurposed to hold sea salt, garlic cloves, or small condiments. Its earthy color and tactile craftsmanship pair beautifully with stone, wood, and copper, adding a quiet, timeworn authenticity to both traditional and contemporary kitchens.

Condition and patina consistent with age.
Approx. overall 6" high x 7½" diameter
Approx. overall 15cm high x 19cm diameter