From that description, the most likely identification is a ceramic condiment or serving jar with a spoon-access lid.
What it probably is
This type of jar was commonly used for:
- Jam or marmalade
- Sugar bowl (with spoon)
- Honey pot
- Sometimes butter or preserves
Why the lid has a finger-sized hole
That hole usually serves a practical purpose:
- It lets a spoon or small ladle stay inside the container
- The handle sticks out through the lid, so you can close it while still accessing it
- It also helps reduce mess and keeps insects out compared to leaving it fully open
Why it matches your piece
Your details fit very well:
- Hand-painted flowers → very common in vintage kitchenware and estate-sale ceramics
- Empty and no smell → typical of food storage jars
- Decorative but functional design → often part of matching kitchen sets (tray + jars + spoons)
Less likely options
- Incense holder (usually has multiple vents or a burner base)
- Apothecary jar (normally fully sealed lid, no hole)
- Decorative urn (wouldn’t have a functional spoon opening)
How to confirm
Check for:
- A matching ceramic spoon (often missing)
- A slight wear ring around the hole (from spoon movement)
- Any matching set pieces from the same style/pattern
Bottom line
It’s most likely a vintage condiment jar designed for jam, sugar, or honey with a spoon-access lid—a common estate-sale kitchen piece.
If you want, you can upload a photo—I can usually identify the exact type, era, and sometimes even the maker.
