Antique Victorian Butterfly Domed Butter Dish

How cool is this!? A butterfly butter dish, and such a wonderful example of Victorian table design. Domed butter dishes like this became popular in the mid- to late-1800s. These pieces were often made in multiple parts, just like this one, with a lift-off lid and an interior insert where the butter would rest. The side arms were for a butter knife. This example is triple plated, meaning it was finished with three layers of sterling silver. This piece measures 8" wide and 5.5" tall. There is light tarnish and some surface marks, particularly on the insert where there is scratching, consistent with age, but otherwise good antique condition.