Praying Knife

left and right views of an etched, engraved and gilded steel knife
ivory, brass and silver handle
unknown maker, Italy, 1500–50
Victoria and Albert Museum
(published on Facebook by Sine musica nulla vita)
no copyright infringement intended

Knives with musical notes on the blade, known as notation knives, are extremely rare. This example is etched with notations expressing gratitude for a meal. The inscription on one side of the blade reads The blessing of the table. May the three-in-one bless that which we are about to eat. This would be sung before the meal was taken. On the other side the inscription gives thanks after the meal: The saying of grace. We give thanks to you God for your generosity. The point of the knife allowed meat to be skewered and offered to a diner or guest.

• Blade A: Benedictio mensae, Tenor, Quae sumpturi sumus benedicat trinus et unus.
• Blade B: Gratiarum actio, Tenor, Pro tuis deus beneficiis gratias agimus tibi.

(Sine musica nulla vita)

(Old Masters)