Wilton Armetale Butterfly Shaped Serving Platter
Hollowware (Serving Platter/Trays) · Wilton Armetale, founded in Wrightsville, Pennsylvania in 1892. Known for producing 'Armetale' metal, they are a leading American brand in casual elegant dining and decorative metalware.
Pattern: Natural Elements Collection, Butterfly Pattern; first introduced in the late 20th century. High popularity in the secondary giftware market.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Platter/Trays)
Maker
Wilton Armetale, founded in Wrightsville, Pennsylvania in 1892. Known for producing 'Armetale' metal, they are a leading American brand in casual elegant dining and decorative metalware.
Material
Armetale Metal (an aluminum-based alloy containing ten or more distinct metals). This is non-precious and does not contain silver, despite its high-lustre silver-like appearance.
Dimensions
Approximately 12-14 inches in width. Weight is significantly lighter than silver, approximately 600-900 grams, with a thick, substantial cross-section.
Description
This charming butterfly-shaped platter is a classic example of American casual elegance. While it mimics the look of high-polished silver, it is crafted from a durable alloy designed for rigorous kitchen use. The whimsical design divides the wings into natural compartments, making it ideal for serving appetizers, fruits, or candies at social gatherings.
Key Features
Unique butterfly silhouette, four-chambered serving areas, matte/satin luster that doesn't tarnish, and the signature 'RWP' maker's mark on the underside.
Material & Composition
Armetale Metal (an aluminum-based alloy containing ten or more distinct metals). This is non-precious and does not contain silver, despite its high-lustre silver-like appearance.
Finish & Decoration
Polished satin finish with cast relief detailing. Features a four-sectioned butterfly form with 'ocelli' (eye spots) cast into the wing tips and a segmented body. Stylistically leans toward Contemporary Folk Art.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on reverse with 'RWP' (the logo for the Wilton brothers: Ralph, Whitney, and Persier) inside a circle, often accompanied by 'Wilton Armetale' and 'USA'.
Construction Details
Sand-cast using traditional mold techniques. Each piece is hand-finished. It is a solid, non-plated casting that does not have the hollow-body construction typical of silver.
Functional Features
Oven-safe, grill-safe, and freezer-safe. The metal is designed to retain heat or cold for long durations. It is non-toxic and suitable for direct food contact.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated wing edges serve as grips; solid cast construction with no separate handle attachments. Material is consistent throughout.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-poured sand casting with hand-grinding on the edges. Higher quality than modern thin-stamped aluminum, but lower craftsmanship status than hand-wrought sterling silver.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 'RWP' stamp, lack of 'Sterling' or silver-purity marks, sand-cast texture on the underside, and the specific grey-toned luster of aluminum-based alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, specifically Pennsylvania. Made using ancient sand-casting techniques adapted for modern industrial production.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Functionalism). Reflects the late 1980s-1990s trend for 'Silver-look' metalware that required less maintenance than sterling.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The condition and thrift store pricing suggest a modern mass-produced era rather than an early foundry piece.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Casual Dining' revolution in American homes during the late 20th century, where families sought the status of silver with the durability of industrial metals.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows some surface scuffing and dullness consistent with cabinet storage and light use. No significant pitting or 'dishwasher rot' visible. Labels indicate current thrift market placement.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. The thrift store price of $7.50 is a 'bargain' rate, as these typically sell on the secondary market (eBay/Etsy) for roughly double to triple that price.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap only. Never place in the dishwasher as harsh detergents will permanently gray and pit the metal. Polish with Wilton's proprietary polish or a soft paste for aluminum if it becomes dull.
Similar Pieces
Arthur Court (often more realistic/botanical, made of aluminum), Mariposa (recycled aluminum with a brighter shine), and Beatriz Ball (hand-made look with organic shapes).
Interesting Facts
Wilton Armetale metal was developed in 1963. It was popular because it doesn't break like ceramic and doesn't require the constant polishing that sterling silver demands.