Fork and Knife, Meissen

This fork and knife from 1730 illustrate how cutlery grew in importance from the Renaissance on, especially following certain modifications in form and style.
A rounded blade now distinguished the table knife from the kitchen knife with its pointed blade. And the fork, which in the 17th century had two prongs, now had a third one, which made it easier to bring food to the mouth.
The growing importance of cutlery also manifested itself in the handles. Made of Meissen porcelain, their floral pattern is characteristic for objects produced by this German manufacturer, which was famous for furnishing Europe’s stately homes in the 18th century. The skilful production of these two pieces involved pushing a metal tang right through the handle where it ends in a decorative rivet.