Vintage English Brass Fruit-Motif Silent Butler / Crumb Catcher — Choice of 2, c. 1960s

The prettiest possible way to clean crumbs off a table.

These vintage English silent butlers date to approximately the 1950s–1960s and feature richly embossed brass faces paired with long turned wooden handles.

Originally designed as crumb catchers, silent butlers were used after meals to discreetly sweep crumbs from a dining table. Similar pieces were also used for collecting ash around smoking tables or fireplaces.

Each circular brass pan features a different raised fruit composition, with beautifully aged surfaces and natural patina that has developed over decades.

The reverse retains the original semicircular hinged collection compartment, along with a stamped MADE IN ENGLAND mark. A metal ring at the end of each handle allows the piece to be hung when not in use.

Today, they’re equally charming used as intended or simply hung on a kitchen, dining-room or bar wall as sculptural vintage objects.

Choose your fruit.

PIÑA: Pineapple, grapes and mixed fruit motif
FRUITS: Grapes, pears / apples and mixed fruit motif

 

DETAILS

• Vintage English silent butler / crumb catcher
• Circa 1950s–1960s
• Made in England
• Embossed brass / brass-tone metal
• Turned dark wood handle
• Raised fruit and foliage decoration
• Original hinged crumb / ash compartment on reverse
• Hanging ring at end of handle
• Naturally aged brass patina
• Decorative verdigris present
• Sold individually
• 2 available 

DIMENSIONS

Overall length: 19" 
Brass pan diameter: 6" 

CONDITION

Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age and prior use.

The brass displays oxidation, tonal variation, surface wear and areas of natural verdigris, particularly around portions of the embossed decoration and edges.

The wooden handles show age-related surface wear and finish variation.

Original hinged back mechanisms and hanging rings are present.

The patina has intentionally been preserved rather than polished away.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description.

DĒSSO NOTE

The Victorians and mid-century English households apparently decided that even crumbs deserved accessories.

And I support that.

Long wooden handles, embossed fruit, old brass and a tiny hidden compartment for table crumbs — completely unnecessary by modern standards and therefore exactly the kind of object I love.

Use it after dinner or hang it on the wall and never collect a crumb in your life.

Both options are valid.

SHIPPING

Available for shipping throughout the U.S.

Local pickup available at REHAUS, Oakland Park, FL. 

Local Miami-area delivery may also be arranged for an additional fee.

Please contact us with any questions before purchasing.