Mystery Object Revealed!

This mystery object blew the others out of the water in our visitor poll to select future objects to feature as the Artifact of the Month. So, what is this mystery object? Try to guess before reading ahead.

Is it a prism? A pendant from a necklace? A chandelier crystal drop? A magic wand? Nope, it’s none of these things – it’s a knife rest!

Knife rests, such as the one displayed in the Museum, were used to temporarily hold a carving or serving knife while the head of the table – or the butler in more wealthy households – passed the guest’s plate after placing the freshly cut meat or entrée upon it. Setting the knife on the rest freed up the carver’s hands and kept the table top or tablecloth from becoming soiled with meat juices or other cooking fluids. This was especially important during a time when caring for table linens was a more laborious process than it is today.

Today knife rests straddle the line between stylish table accessory and collector’s item. They can be found in a wide variety of materials and designs on collectible websites and in antique shops, as well as at houseware websites and stores. 

Come to the museum to learn more about this fancy table accoutrement from a bygone era!