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# Antique Victorian Figural Cow Lidded Butter Dish with Original Insert
**Manufacturer:** Taunton Silver Plate Co. (Taunton, Massachusetts)
**Estimated Production Era:** Circa 1872–1875
**Catalog / Model Number:** 1032
**Material:** High-Quality Triple Silver Plate
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## Item Overview
Up for sale is a stunning, highly collectible piece of authentic American Victorian dining history. This ornate triple silver-plated lidded butter dish (or butter cooler) was crafted by the renowned Taunton Silver Plate Company during their brief 1870s revival period.
It features an iconic, finely detailed figural dairy cow finial standing atop a beautifully hand-engraved, domed cloche lid. The main serving bowl is elevated by four elegant, scrolled figural legs. The sides feature decorative handle mounts that traditionally doubled as hooks/rests for a butter knife.
## Crucial Completeness: Includes the Original Insert!
Most Victorian butter coolers lost or damaged their inner linings over the past 150 years. This listing features a complete 3-piece set, including the original removable interior insert made of triple-plate metal. The inner well was designed to hold crushed ice, allowing the insert to keep the butter firm and elevated away from condensation during warm formal dinners.
## Condition Report
* **Patina & Finish:** Offered in honest, unpolished antique condition with its original rich, dark historical patina intact. The tarnish provides a gorgeous contrast that beautifully highlights the intricate floral engraving and the details of the cow sculpture. We have chosen to leave it unpolished to preserve the delicate plating and allow the winning buyer to decide on the level of shine they prefer.
* **Structural Condition:** Structurally sound with no major dents, deep gouges, or structural warping. The lid fits properly on the base. The ornate quadruped legs are strong and level.
* **Markings:** The flat underside of the base is clearly stamped with the authentic historical mark: "TAUNTON SILVER PLATE CO. TRIPLE PLATE 1032".
## Specifications (Approximate)
* **Overall Height:** ~7 inches
* **Width:** 7.5 inches
