Pa. German Butter Mold c. 1938

Charlotte Angus painted this Pa. German Butter Mold; the artwork immortalizes a common, yet culturally significant household item. Angus, born in 1911, lived through a period of significant social and economic change in the United States. During her lifetime, there was a renewed interest in folk art, particularly from marginalized communities. Butter molds like this one were not just functional tools, they were also a means of cultural expression, especially within Pennsylvania's German communities. The designs, often floral or geometric, reflected the maker's heritage and personal identity. These motifs were not merely decorative; they were a way of preserving cultural memory and asserting identity in a changing world. The butter mold exemplifies the intersection of utility and art. It represents a moment in time, capturing the essence of a community's heritage and the artistry found in everyday life.