Antique Milford Ware Covered Butter Dish

James Kent Ltd, England | c.1915–1930

A beautiful antique covered butter dish produced by James Kent Ltd of Longton, Staffordshire, trading under the well-known Milford Ware name.

The softly moulded form is decorated with hand-painted roses and foliage, finished in gentle celadon-green shading with fine gilt edging and scrollwork. The arched handle is enriched with applied floral detailing — a hallmark of early Milford decorative wares.

The base bears the printed “Milford Ware – England” mark, dating this piece to the early 20th century, during the Edwardian to interwar period.

This is a classic example of English ornamental tableware, balancing utility with decorative refinement.

📐 Details

• Maker: James Kent Ltd

• Pattern / Range: Milford Ware

• Origin: Longton, Staffordshire, England

• Date: circa 1915–1930

• Material: Glazed earthenware

• Decoration: Hand-painted florals with gilt detailing

• Length: approx. 20 cm

• Height (to handle): approx. 10 cm

• Markings: Printed Milford Ware – England backstamp

• Condition:

  • Very good antique condition

  • Light age-related crazing typical of period

  • Minor gilt wear consistent with age

  • No chips or cracks observed

🏛 Curatorial Note

Milford Ware was produced by James Kent Ltd as a more decorative line aimed at the expanding middle-class market of the early 20th century.

Butter dishes such as this were often used for both daily service and special occasions, and today remain highly desirable for country kitchens, English interiors, and decorative display.

📦 Shipping

Professionally packed and shipped Australia-wide.
Local pickup available from Northam Secondhand, WA.