American Aesthetic Movement Coin Silver Butter Cooler by Peter L. Krider
Hollowware (Butter Cooler / Butter Dish) · Peter L. Krider (P.L.K.), a highly regarded Philadelphia silversmith known for exceptional quality and producing work for retailers like Tiffany & Co. and Caldwell.
Pattern: Custom Aesthetic Movement design featuring Greek Key and Lotus motifs; no specific named retail collection.
Type
Hollowware (Butter Cooler / Butter Dish)
Maker
Peter L. Krider (P.L.K.), a highly regarded Philadelphia silversmith known for exceptional quality and producing work for retailers like Tiffany & Co. and Caldwell.
Material
Coin Silver (.900 purity), indicated by the STANDARD stamp which was common for American silver prior to the universal adoption of Sterling (.925).
Dimensions
Approximately 7-8 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height. Estimated weight between 15 and 20 troy ounces.
Description
This exquisite American butter cooler represents the pinnacle of 19th-century Philadelphia silversmithing. The domed lid is elegantly engraved with a mixture of Neoclassical Greek Key and naturalistic floral motifs characteristic of the Aesthetic period. The vessel's reflective surface and substantial cast handles elevate a humble table utility into a piece of fine art dining.
Key Features
P.L.K. maker mark, 'STANDARD' purity stamp, and the 1871 commemorative date engraving. The Greek Key fretwork is a hallmark of Krider’s design vocabulary.
Material & Composition
Coin Silver (.900 purity), indicated by the STANDARD stamp which was common for American silver prior to the universal adoption of Sterling (.925).
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with Aesthetic Movement engravings: Greek Key border, lotus-style palmettes, and floral sprays. Features a prominent script monogram 'LBH' with the date 'Jan 1st 1871'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'STANDARD' (indicating .900 fineness), '*P.L.K.*' (maker's mark for Peter L. Krider), and the pattern/production number '479'.
Construction Details
Raised and spun body with cast finial and handles. The handles are applied with decorative bolsters, and the lid is fitted to a double-walled or inset base designed for ice.
Functional Features
Includes a domed cover to keep butter cool, a finial for lifting, and wide handles for transport. Likely originally contained a pierced silver insert to keep butter above ice water.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast silver handles featuring scrolled, architectural Aesthetic designs. The lid features a central acorn or stylized bud finial.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional engraving depth and symmetry. The handles are expertly cast with crisp detail, and the lid fit shows high-precision bench work.
Authentication Indicators
The P.L.K. mark is authentic in its serif style. The 'STANDARD' stamp is consistent with Philadelphia makers of the early 1870s. Wear patterns on the base and lid lip match 150 years of use.
Origin & Manufacturing
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Krider's workshop was famous for its precision and high-relief decorative work.
Era & Period
Aesthetic Movement (c. 1860-1890). Historical context is post-Civil War American prosperity where specialized serving pieces became symbols of status.
Age Estimate
Dated 1871 by engraving. This aligns perfectly with the transition from Coin Silver (Standard) to Sterling in the Philadelphia market.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the Victorian obsession with specialized dining etiquette and the Cooling of butter as a luxury necessity before modern refrigeration.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface micro-scratching consistent with age. No visible significant dents or repairs to the rim or base. Monogram is original and deep.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $800 to $1,400 depending on the presence of the internal pierced liner. Krider pieces carry a premium for their Philadelphia provenance.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with high-quality cream like Wright's. Avoid silver dips which can strip the detail from the engravings. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Similar coin silver butter dishes by Gorham or Whiting often use more floral repoussé, whereas Krider is known for more restrained, engraved 'Standard' pieces.
Interesting Facts
Peter Krider apprenticed at R. & W. Wilson before starting his own firm; he was so skilled that his shop produced many of the pieces sold under more famous retail names.