Butter bells are used to keep a stick of butter fresh, soft and sweet on your countertop - without refrigeration.  Say goodbye to torn toast forever.  Water in the bottom seals out air which keeps the butter from spoiling.  They've been used in France for many years - and are starting to catch on in the states thanks to cooking shows.  Ours is white, porcelain, and colorfully beaded on both sides - of course!