Historical story

Table knives:how they changed from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance

Bronze Renaissance table knife

Also table knives they underwent substantial changes from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, in line with the general changes that occurred from one era to another.

We know that not only gastronomy understood as cooking and way of eating, but also habits at the table , underwent a global change in the Renaissance period ( see also https://www.pilloledistoria.it/12401/storia-moderna/lo-zucchero-cucina-rinascimentale).

The table knives in particular, became more refined in shape:the lines became more refined, sweet and tapered.

This was also a direct consequence of greater attention to the label.

Knives of different types and for diversified use arrived on the Renaissance tables:there was one for fish, one for meat, dessert and so on, but the tip, compared to the past, it became more rounded for all models.

It goes without saying that the class difference it counted very much:only in the banquets of the rich was it possible to come across real little masterpieces.

The nobles in fact sported finely crafted, inlaid and carved knives, often in precious materials such as gold, silver and ivory.

Usually their use was limited and there was not one for each diner, but only someone to pass over each other if necessary.

Finally, compared to the Middle Ages, table knives also changed function, which became exclusively that of shredding the dishes.

In the past, however, in addition to cutting it, the knife was also used to bring food to the mouth ( Photo from :catawiki.it).