What Is a Silent Butler?
The term "silent butler" refers to a type of covered receptacle used for cleaning small amounts of material in the home, much like a covered dustpan. They were often beautifully designed, with attention to detail. Does this Spark an idea?
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Receptacle
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The term silent butler was coined in the early to mid 1940s, according to Random House Dictionary, and is used to describe a small receptacle with a lid attached via a hinge.
Purpose
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The silent butler has been traditionally used to clean up a variety of debris such as cigarette ashes, dust and crumbs. The handles on silent butlers add to their convenience for quick cleaning tasks.
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Appearance
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Silent butlers are were often made with ornate trim. They were available in a variety of finishes, such as chrome, brass or bronze.
Expensive materials
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Unlike the simple plastic dustpans in use today, silent butlers were available in more expensive materials. Tiffany & Co. produced a high-end silver silent butler in 1961.
Handles
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Some silent butlers are made with simple wooden handles, whereas others are crafted in unique designs such as braided handles.
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