Antique 17th century sterling silver tubular nutmeg grater

Dimensions:
Diameter x height: 2.5 x 6.1 cm
Weight: 29.5 grams

During the 17th century, nutmeg was highly coveted for its ability to enhance the flavor of food and drink, as well as its perceived medicinal and mystical properties. However, the Dutch controlled the entire nutmeg trade, importing it from their Dutch-owned Banda Islands in Indonesia at considerable expense. Such was the spice’s importance that, in 1674, the Dutch agreed to trade the entire island of Manhattan (then known as New Amsterdam) for a small British island (Granada), where the British cultivated only a few nutmeg trees.

Nutmeg’s popularity soared, especially as a flavouring for “punch,” wine, and ciders. Elite gentlemen of the time would carry a small silver grater in their vest pockets, containing their nutmeg supply—a display of both wealth and sophistication.

Moving into the 18th and 19th centuries, nutmeg graters, along with nutmeg itself, became more widely available and were crafted from various materials, including tureen, enamel, ivory, brass, and gold. This marked a shift from the exclusive and rare nature of the earlier silver nutmeg graters, reflecting changing trends and accessibility in the production of these prized items.

Condition: Minor signs of wear and tear, otherwise good condition overall.