Patthar Ceramic Butter Dish - Cream & Clay

The Patthar butter dish comes in two parts: a shallow rectangular tray 17cm by 13cm, and a lid that stands over it to a total height of 11.5cm. The tray has a flat well with the two short ends turned up and flared out into lips. The lid is square-shouldered with a rounded top and a strap handle arched across it. Over the cream glaze, three broad clay-coloured bands are painted down the long face, separated by thin lines of small rust-red dots that run on down the corners.

At 17 by 13cm the tray is sized for a block rather than a pat, and the lid stands clear over it to 11.5cm, so nothing presses down on the butter. The two turned-up ends of the tray give something to lift the whole dish by with the lid still on. It is foodsafe and dishwasher safe.

The dish is ceramic. The brushwork is done by hand on the soft clay surface, so the bands are not the same width on every dish and the lines of dots run slightly out of true. Patthar runs on to a dinner plate, a side plate, a pasta bowl, a cereal bowl, a serving bowl, a cup and saucer, mugs, jugs, a teapot, egg cups and a twelve-piece set.

How big is it?

The tray is 17 by 13cm, and the dish stands 11.5cm tall with the lid on.

Is it dishwasher safe and foodsafe?

Yes to both.

Is the pattern painted by hand?

Yes, on the soft clay surface. The bands and the lines of dots vary a little from one dish to the next.

What else is in the range?

Patthar runs to plates, bowls, mugs, jugs, a cup and saucer, a teapot, egg cups and a twelve-piece set.

How do I look after it?

Wash it after every use to stop staining, with a mild detergent, and do not leave it to soak. Handle it carefully to avoid chipping.