This whimsical butter dish is sure to bring a sea of change to your kitchen. Designed by Akira Yoshimura (previously) and lovingly produced by the metal artisans of Takaoka-based Sanomasa, the Whale Butter Dish is made in the likeness of a whale that has swallowed a stick of butter in one huge gulp.
The Whale Butter Dish is made from sand-cast aluminum and the entire process from modeling, casting, polishing, and coating to the engraved eyes, is done in the city of Takaoka (Toyama prefecture), famous for its metalwork.
The cast aluminum helps keep your butter at optimal temperature no matter what season. The tray is inscribed with 10g measurements to aid in cooking while the beautifully handcrafted brass spout serves as a handle. But the best part is surely the fact that you will always smile each time you reach for your butter. It’s available though the Spoon & Tamago shop ($190).
The tray is inscribed with 10g measurements to aid in cooking and baking.
The whale’s jaw edges allow the body to sit above the table surface for cleanliness and ease of use.
the beautifully handcrafted brass spout acts as a handle and is sure to become a whimsical and useful addition to the dining table
October 8, 2023 at 4:03 pm
One would have a whale of a time serving butter from this server
October 12, 2023 at 10:59 am
In almost any other cultural setting, this would be a charming piece, but the Japanese have a slightly troubling relationship with whales…!
October 12, 2023 at 9:54 pm
Is the butter dish designed for Elgin style or Western stubby style sticks of butter? The former is used on the East coast of the US, the latter on the West Coast.
October 21, 2023 at 2:48 pm
NickS – the butter dish accommodates both! The inside cavity is surprisingly wide.