Found it in my in-laws drawer where they had butter dishes etc What’s this?? Fork there for scale.

A knife rest is a small, often decorative object designed to keep a knife blade from touching the table or countertop. These items come in various shapes and materials, ranging from simple metal designs to ornate versions made of silver or porcelain. As one user shared, “It’s a knife rest. These are not only for the carving knife but one is at each place setting for resting the table knife after it’s used.”

Knife rests date back to the early 19th century and were originally used to protect tablecloths from stains. They were particularly popular in households that frequently entertained guests, as noted by one commenter: “My grandmother had two. She entertained often.”

Today, knife rests are less common, with some people finding them impractical due to dishwasher incompatibility. As one user mentioned, “Sad tradition. If it won’t get washed in a dishwasher, they won’t keep them in their house.”

Despite their decreased prevalence, knife rests add elegance to dining settings. They serve not just a practical purpose but also enhance the table’s visual appeal. “Wow! The knife rests sure are beautiful!!” one user exclaimed.

While knife rests might be rare in modern homes, they remain a charming and practical tool for elegant dining. They ensure that your tablecloth stays clean and add a touch of sophistication to your meals.