ANTIQUE SILVER NEFS
First recorded in France in 1239, a Nef (a French word for a type of ship), was designed to be an extravagant table ornament which could be used for serving at the table. Traditionally, the top was removable to allow the use of the empty hull for storing salt, or spices, and examples can be found which were designed to be used as decanters.
2 results
j7689 : Sterling Silver Novelty 'Nef' Drinks Decanter
Hallmarked In 1900
Carrying import marks for Chester in 1900 by Berthold Muller, this Antique Sterling Silver Nef, is also a decanter, with the bowsprit acting as the spout, and the back section hinging to allow the alcohol to be poured in. The Nef measures 16"(41cm) tall, by 13"(33cm) wide, by 4.5"(11.5cm) deep and weighs 45.4 troy ounces.
£5,975
b1283 : Sterling Silver Large Nef
Hallmarked In 1925
Carrying import marks for London in 1925 by Thomas Callow & Sons, this superb example of a Sterling Silver Nef, is a particularly fine representation of the 16th century style, elaborated detailed, and resting on 4 wheels to allow it to “sail” around the table. The top of the ship lifts off to reveal an empty hull. The nef measures 27.5"(70cm) tall, by 32"(81cm) wide, by 5.5"(13cm) deep, and weighs an impressive124.7 troy ounces.
£34,750