Beautiful collectibles have always graced the pages of Southern Lady. To celebrate the treasure hunter in us all, we’re spotlighting eight stunning keepsakes and sharing fresh ways to enjoy them year-round.
1. Butter Pats
Synonymous with the condiment they were designed to hold, vintage butter pats endure as multifunctional works of art. These tiny, shallow dishes can be used as coasters, spoon rests, jewelry trays, or soap dishes. They’re handy in an office to corral stamps and paper clips and just the right size to tuck beneath a miniature potted plant or a votive candle.
2. Calling Card Trays
3. Oyster Plates
From bone china to glass to majolica, vintage and antique oyster plates can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, and motifs. Relish their artistry by displaying your collection on open kitchen shelving or position one on your coffee table. The compartments are ideal for serving noshes of any sort, making them a functional conversation piece in your entertaining repertoire.
4. Demitasse Cups
Originally made for after-dinner coffee or espresso, fine demitasse cups lend flair to teatime at any hour of the day. Mix and match several patterns to serve sipping chocolate, rich soups, sorbet between courses, or miniature desserts. It’s also a splendid vessel for a deliciously rich nightcap.
5. Demitasse Spoons
Fanciful demitasse spoons are enjoying a resurgence, as this minuscule flatware, once reserved for coffee service, is used for charcuterie boards and even feeding babies. Mostly made of gold, silver, or silver plate, these dainty pieces are perfect for serving small portions of candies, olives, and nuts. You don’t need a matching set, nor do they have to be part of your silver pattern—buy and use an assortment of designs you love.
6. Saltcellars
Antique saltcellars and their tiny serving spoons accommodate a plethora of condiments and seasonings. From sugar substitute and salt flakes to hot sauce and herbs, fill these collectibles with anything your imagination conjures. Position them about the house as fetching catchalls for bobby pins, matches, and other knickknacks.
7. Tomato Servers
Collectors appreciate tomato servers for their versatility and artistry, bringing them to tables set for parties or simple backyard get-togethers. While the perforations are well-suited for serving sliced fruits and vegetables, use them for hamburgers, desserts, and casseroles for a dash of glam.
8. Tulipieres
Today, easy access to abundant fresh flowers has opened the door to fashioning arrangements of all kinds in tulipieres. Affordable tulips can be found year-round, but the sky is the limit when it comes to filling these sculptural containers—hydrangeas, roses, hyacinths, and snapdragons work beautifully. See our tips for arranging your favorite blooms in tulipieres here.
Share your own stunning keepsakes with us on social media by tagging @southernladymag.
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