Category: History & Trivia

Consider the Fork with Simone Giertz

This video above features Simone Giertz (who we love here at the Cutlery Review) having an amazing discussion about forks. These two really nerd out about forks and we are very jealous that we didn’t get to join the flatware chat. It’s great fun, give it a watch.

But it reminded us about an amazing book about cutlery and history. This book is almost the “bible” of cutlery for us in the office. It’s Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat by Bee Wilson. If you want to really know how that fork changed the world this is the book for you. We can’t recommend it enough.

Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat by Bee Wilson

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Viking Medieval Cutlery Set

Viking Medieval Cutlery Set


A Viking Medieval Cutlery Set transports us back in time to the rugged and fascinating era of the Vikings, providing a unique and historically inspired dining experience. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these cutlery sets often feature designs reminiscent of Norse artistry and symbolism. The handles may be adorned with intricate patterns, runes, or Viking-inspired motifs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this legendary seafaring people. The use of robust materials, such as carbon steel adds durability to the cutlery, maintaining a balance between authenticity and modern functionality.

In addition to their striking aesthetics, Viking Medieval Cutlery Sets often include a variety of utensils tailored to the needs of the time. Knife blades may be rugged and versatile, suitable for both everyday tasks and more demanding uses, while forks and spoons showcase a utilitarian design reflecting the pragmatic lifestyle of the Vikings. These sets aren’t merely kitchen tools; they serve as conversation pieces and historical artifacts that allow enthusiasts and history aficionados to connect with the Viking age on a tangible level. Whether used for themed feasts, reenactments, or as unique pieces of kitchen decor, a Viking Medieval Cutlery Set brings a touch of the past into the present, celebrating the craftsmanship and spirit of a bygone era.

This Viking Medieval Cutlery Set consists of a fork, knife, spoon and food sticker! The spoon, fork and knife are 7 inches long and the food stick is 6 inches. It also includes a leather carry pouch.

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Eucharist spoon aka Liturgical Spoon aka Communion Spoon

Eucharist spoon aka Liturgical Spoon aka Communion Spoon

The Eucharist spoon, also known as a liturgical spoon or communion spoon, holds significant importance in the Christian sacrament of Holy Communion, particularly in Orthodox Christian traditions. This specialized spoon is used to administer the consecrated bread and wine to the faithful during the Divine Liturgy. The Eucharist spoon typically has a long handle, often ornately decorated, and a small bowl at the end. It is crafted with great care, using various materials such as silver, gold, or other precious metals, reflecting the reverence with which the sacrament is approached.

In the Orthodox Christian tradition, the Eucharist spoon plays a pivotal role in the liturgy. During the Holy Communion, the priest uses the spoon to carefully place a piece of the consecrated bread (known as the Body of Christ) into a chalice containing the consecrated wine (known as the Blood of Christ). This combination symbolizes the unity of Christ’s body and blood and is then administered to the communicant. The use of the spoon signifies the solemnity and sacredness of this act, as well as a practical measure to ensure that the sacred elements are handled with the utmost care and reverence.

The Eucharist spoon is not only a religious artifact but also a symbol of the spiritual nourishment and communion between the individual and the divine. It embodies the idea that the Eucharist is a shared meal among believers, a tangible link between the faithful and Christ. The design and craftsmanship of the spoon vary across different Orthodox traditions and regions, often reflecting local cultural influences and artistic styles, making each Eucharist spoon a unique and cherished element of the religious experience.

Buy a Orthodox Christian Set of Communion Spoon and Lance for Divine Liturgy from Amazon

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13 Things You Might Not Know About Cutlery

old cutlery
  1. The word “cutlery” is derived from the Old French word “coutelier,” which means “knife maker.” It refers to the collective term for utensils used for eating, cutting, and serving food.
  2. Cutlery has been used by humans for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that early humans began using rudimentary tools made from bone and stone as early as 2.6 million years ago.
  3. Forks, as we know them today, were not commonly used in Western Europe until the 16th century. Before that, people primarily used spoons and knives for eating.
  4. The first patent for a mechanical knife sharpener was granted to Benjamin Huntsman in 1770. It was a significant development that revolutionized the cutlery industry and made knives easier to maintain.
  5. The traditional place setting for a formal meal includes several types of cutlery. It typically consists of a dinner fork, a salad fork, a dinner knife, a soup spoon, and a dessert spoon. The arrangement and use of these utensils vary depending on the culture and the type of meal.
  6. The design of cutlery has evolved over time. Early cutlery featured handles made from natural materials like wood or bone. However, modern cutlery often incorporates handles made from materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or even precious metals.
  7. Stainless steel, a widely used material for cutlery, was developed in the early 20th century. It is prized for its resistance to corrosion, durability, and ease of maintenance.
  8. The concept of using separate cutlery for specific purposes, such as fish knives or butter spreaders, became popular during the Victorian era in England. These specialized utensils were often part of elaborate dining sets.
  9. The design of cutlery is not only functional but also influenced by aesthetics and cultural preferences. Different countries and regions have distinct styles of cutlery, such as the delicate chopsticks of East Asia or the ornate silverware of formal Western dining.
  10. Cutlery can be an art form. Many skilled craftsmen and artisans create unique and intricate designs, often using traditional techniques like hand engraving or forging. Collectible or heirloom cutlery sets can be highly valued for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
  11. Some cutlery pieces have specific names. For example, a butter knife is a blunt-edged knife used for spreading butter, and a grapefruit spoon has a serrated edge to help scoop out the fruit segments.
  12. Cutlery hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of bacteria and foodborne illnesses. Washing cutlery with hot, soapy water after each use and drying them thoroughly helps maintain cleanliness.
  13. Cutlery has cultural symbolism and etiquette associated with it. For example, placing your cutlery parallel across your plate signifies that you have finished eating, while crossing the utensils indicates that you are still enjoying your meal. Different cultures may have specific customs regarding the placement and use of cutlery during formal dining occasions.
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