Knottekistje Antique Frisian Dutch 800 Silver Knot Box Marriage Money Casket on 4 gilted ball feet. Bears later Dutch Silver Duty markings. The term knot casket or knot box derives from an old Frisian custom for proposing marriage. A young man would tie silver coins loosely in an embroidered linen cloth. Carrying this knotting cloth, he would walk past the young lady who had caught his eye. The clinking of the coins in the cloth would give the woman some idea as to whether the man had the means to look after her. If she agreed to the match, she would tighten the knot. If she did not, the man could go on his way without losing too much face. In wealthy and aristocratic families the knotting cloth would be replaced by a miniature silver casket or knot box.

Very Good

3.75 x 5 x 2.75 in