Pair French Ivory and Silver Knife Rests or Holders

This fine pair of knife rests were crafted in France in the 19th century, when fine dining was an important part of high society. The knife rest, or ‘porte-couteaux’, as they were called in France, was designed to hold the knife end off the table between courses. This ensured that the knife, which was stained with food, would not touch the clean tablecloth. While they were chiefly functional pieces of design, knife rests were crafted in the 19th century in a variety of interesting forms and in a range of precious materials. Some took animal or human forms, others featured initials, floral motifs, and scrolling patterns, variously crafted in gold, silver, ivory and mother-of-pearl. one crack and some discoloration commensurate with its age.

DETAILS

• Country: France 
• Condition: Very Good
  
• Year: 1880
  
• Dimensions: H 1.5” x W 4” x D 2”