Lotus Blossom Condiment Jar

This is a really fun little lidded jar made in China either in the 18th century or possibly a bit later. I have never seen anything like it nor could I find another looking in books and online. If it was bigger I would say it is a sugar dish but it is rather small. Maybe for salt or a spicy paste to add to food!? The lid has a tiny slot for a spoon in it - a salt spoon would fit but nothing much bigger. Either way a superbly modeled piece in the form of a lotus blowwom with the pink and white petals with gold trim to the edges. The lid has the same petals with a yellow center on which a butterfly is perched which forms the finial. Super cute piece! The set is in superb condition with some firing inclusions on the inside bottom from when it was made and a minor touch of wear to the gilding. The bottom is unmarked but there really is no proper room for it. The dish with the lid in place is 2.25 inches tall (including the butterfly) and about 2.25 inches in diamter.The opening in the lid for the spoon is 0.1875 inches wide and 0.25 inches deep. A really fun dish and maybe someone out there knows what it is used for, etc. Please email me for more information or other pictures.