Art Nouveau-Style Scimmia Crouching Monkey Knife Rest - 8.5 cm Length - Handcrafted in Italy - PewterThis pretty pewter Art Nouveau Style Scimmia crouching monkey knife rest, handcrafted in Italian pewter, by highly skilled 'pewterers', is therefore practical as well as pretty, and finishes a properly appointed table, perfectly. Knife rests are the essence of fine dining, adding a touch of glamour and ritual to the table top. Dating back to the 16th Century and the court of Henry VIII when they were made of wood, modern knife rests are more likely to

although most scholars agree they were invented in the second or the third quarter of the thirteenth century

elevate this subtle bowl to something a little bit special

or when there is a choice of drinks being served

Small posies

instead of ripped and ravaged by impatient fingers

Size: 25 cm x 19 cm

This handcrafted pretty bud vase from Lombardia

is of modest proportions

blending Crème de Cassis with a chocolate dessert

hope and survival

This solid fork-tipped cheese knife is the perfect tool for cutting and slicing a whole variety of firm cheeses

Réaumur is still remembered as one of the key pioneers in developing the thermometer