Bestecke, Cutlery: The Eggolffstein Collection (15th-18th Century) at the Wartburg Castle
This lavishly illustrated volume presents a remarkable collection of European dining implements dating from the Middle Ages to the 18th Century, purchased in 1843 by the Grand Duke Carl Alexander of Saxony-Weimar-Eisanach. Included are spectacular late 16th century French examples of colored enamel, gilt brass, variously tinted ivory, mother of pearl and some set with semi-precious stones; and representative German works from the 16th and early 17th centuries of amber and ivory. The collection also includes unique and magnificent Habaner works in the typical combination of materials - mother-of-pearl, brass and dark horn - as well as other cutlery with handles of varicolored marble, chalcedony, agate, rock crystal, deep red glass, millefiori glass, and handles with colored enamel of fayence and porcelain. Text in German and English.