NAVIGATION

An Unusual Rare German Saxony Folding Steel Brass Silver and Green Stained Ivory Miniature Fork 
Probably for use when travelling 
Contained in a leather sheath
1st Half 18th Century

Size: 4.5cm long - 1¾ ins long (closed) / 8.5cm long - 3¼ ins long (extended) / 6.5cm long - 2½ long (case)

In past centuries considerable artistic endeavour went into the making of fine cutlery for it demonstrated that its owner was cultured, had good taste and commanded wealth and power. Diners would take their own personal cutlery with them when invited to a banquet or whilst they were travelling. Using one’s own cutlery often provided a conversation piece regarding exquisite workmanship or precious materials, but importantly it also enabled the noble diner to be sure that his utensils had not been dipped in poison. It was not until the mid 18th century that sufficient eating utensils were available to invited guests, and then only in any real quantity in England and Switzerland. It would be kept and displayed in special boxes or cases on the sideboard and given pride of place as an indication of status.