Trencher (one of a set)

Unknown

late 16th–early 17th century · Oak and sycamore woods, painted, silvered and yellow varnished; inscription: ink (animal or vegetable) · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Banquets usually ended with candied fruits or other sweetmeats served on such decorative "spice dishes" of silver or wood. The gold effects were achieved with yellow varnish over a layer of silver-leaf. The verses were written in Black Letter script, with elaborate capital letters in Lombardic script. The verses, either amusing or moralizing, were shared with the other diners.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 16th–early 17th century

Medium

Oak and sycamore woods, painted, silvered and yellow varnished; inscription: ink (animal or vegetable)

Culture

British

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964