A silent butler, sometimes called an ash butler, is a small container, often of base metal, sometimes silver or silverplate, with a handle and hinged cover, used for collecting ashes or crumbs.
[1][2] They were more common during the 20th century, and enjoyed some popularity being made as a home construction project in the US.
[3][4][5] They are now often considered collector's items, or are valued for their retro appeal.
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