Notation Knife. ca. 1550. Artist unknown. Victoria & Albert Museum.

Notation Knives, c. 16th century, artist unknown. Fitzwilliam Museum. (Photo: (Johan Oosterman)

Extremely Rare Knives of the 16th Century Will Teach You How to Sing

It’s no longer exactly musical chairs, but this Renaissance-generation cutlery can deliver a tune at any table setting. Dating back to the 16th century, these extraordinarily uncommon knives are engraved with musical scores whole with lyrics. On one facet is a benediction that may have been sung earlier than a meal, after which a grace on the reverse facet that turned into sung after consuming. As an example, the knife underneath reads: “The blessing of the table. May the three-in-one bless that which we are about to eat.” And the other side reads: “The saying of grace. We give thanks to you God for your generosity.”

These simple statements turn into something quite grand when…