A silent butler, sometimes called an ash butler, is a small container, often of

base metal A base metal is a common and inexpensive metal, as opposed to a precious metal such as gold or silver. In numismatics, coins often derived their value from the precious metal content; however, base metals have also been used in coins in the past ...

, sometimes silver or silverplate, with a handle and hinged cover, used for collecting ashes or crumbs. They were more common during the 20th century, and enjoyed some popularity being made as a home construction project in the US. They are now often considered

collector's item A collectable (collectible or collector's item) is any Physical object, object regarded as being of value or interest to a collecting, collector. Collectable items are not necessarily monetarily valuable or uncommon. There are numerous types ...

s, or are valued for their

retro Retro style is imitative or consciously derivative of lifestyles, trends, or art forms from the past, including in music, modes, fashions, or attitudes. It has been argued that there is a nostalgia cycle in popular culture. Definition The term ...

appeal.

References

{{reflist Cleaning tools Metalworking