Nef (napkin holder)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A nef is a boat-shaped ornament and dish used in the Middle Ages to carry a lord's napkins and table knives. It was placed in the middle of the High Table, where the lord sat. It was usually made of silver, but richer lords could afford to purchase one made of gold. Lords with a nef generally tried to show off their wealth to nobles and other lords at times of banquets and feasts.
[edit] Further reading
- Lightbown, R. W. Secular Goldsmith’s Work in Medieval France: A History. London: Society of Antiquaries of London, 1978.
- Oman, Charles. Medieval Silver Nefs. London: Her Majesty’s Stationary Office, 1963.
- Truman, Charles. “Ships on Board.” Country Life vol. 183, no. 38 (1989): 218-221.
[edit] Sources
Steele, Philip (1995). Castles. New York: Kingfisher, p36. ISBN 1-85697-547-9.
