A 20th-century Spanish three masted Nef marked to sail, of traditional form with rigging, sails and figures at work, raised on four feet (Height: 74cm) Note: Designed to display extravagance, the nef is an impressive, intricate table ornament. Appearing in medieval literature from the 13th century, they were originally thought to be drinking vessels and it is perhaps due to this purpose that some are formed from nautilus shells. Primarily, though, they have been a conduit for entertaining, wherein the passing and sharing of the ship’s contents often acted in settings of diplomacy. Perhaps the most famous example is the Burghley Nef, discovered at Burghley House by Arthur Grimwade, Sotheby’s silver specialist, in the 1950s. Now housed in the V & A museum in London, with poorly marked French control marks, research suggests that it is probably from the period 11th December 1527-10 December 1528, but its maker has yet to be confirmed. From contemporary documents in the house, it is thought that this nef may have been a salt. As more and more exotic spices travelled around Europe the nef would have been the perfect carrier for such intriguing tastes and smells. Often based on actual ships, Queen Vicotria’s second son, Alfred, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1844-1900), also known as Duke of Edinburgh, who was Admiral in the British navy, had an armada of some fifty nefs with which he adorned his table. The taste for centrepieces took off in the 16th century, primarily made in Germany, other examples can be found across the continent in France, Italy, and Spain, and would often feature automata to create a more awe-inspiring spectacle. Progressing from solely drinking vessels, the nef might sometimes include flatware and tableware for the guests to be beguiled by even further.