A stunning and rare piece from the early Georgian period, c1740s, likely Dutch in origin. This piece can be worn as a pendant and is in fact, a nutmeg grater. During the 17th/18th century, nutmeg was a highly valued spice due to its relative scarcity. It had many uses which included cooking, as well as religious, ritual, and medical purposes. In the late 18th century, the spice was being sold at 85-90 shillings per pound. Inflated to today’s prices that is the equivalent of £23 - £25,000 per pound!
This particular delight is egg-shaped and has engravings all around the outside depicting Dutch landscapes. They are very expression-full with one particular scene creating a true image of a windy day with leaves blowing through the sky. The ‘egg’ unscrews to reveal the steel grate. This can be removed allowing the nutmeg to be stored beneath. It was fashionable for men to carry the spice to add freshly grated nutmeg to punch. This particular nutmeg grater is unusual in that it has a bail and could be worn as a pendant. It was likely worn on a watch chain during the period.
The screw works well and is very secure. This lovely egg looks fantastic on a chain and is a marvellous piece of history in beautiful condition. The chain pictured is for display only.
Details:
Materials - Silver (tested)
Age - C1740s
Size - The egg measures approx 30.5mm long excluding the bail and is around 21mm wide.
Condition - Excellent. Patina commensurate with age
Weight - 14.9g
A stunning and rare piece from the early Georgian period, c1740s, likely Dutch in origin. This piece can be worn as a pendant and is in fact, a nutmeg grater. During the 17th/18th century, nutmeg was a highly valued spice due to its relative scarcity. It had many uses which included cooking, as well as religious, ritual, and medical purposes. In the late 18th century, the spice was being sold at 85-90 shillings per pound. Inflated to today’s prices that is the equivalent of £23 - £25,000 per pound!
This particular delight is egg-shaped and has engravings all around the outside depicting Dutch landscapes. They are very expression-full with one particular scene creating a true image of a windy day with leaves blowing through the sky. The ‘egg’ unscrews to reveal the steel grate. This can be removed allowing the nutmeg to be stored beneath. It was fashionable for men to carry the spice to add freshly grated nutmeg to punch. This particular nutmeg grater is unusual in that it has a bail and could be worn as a pendant. It was likely worn on a watch chain during the period.
The screw works well and is very secure. This lovely egg looks fantastic on a chain and is a marvellous piece of history in beautiful condition. The chain pictured is for display only.
Details:
Materials - Silver (tested)
Age - C1740s
Size - The egg measures approx 30.5mm long excluding the bail and is around 21mm wide.
Condition - Excellent. Patina commensurate with age
Weight - 14.9g
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