In the past, Knife Boxes displayed on their owner’s sideboard to reflect their wealth. Normally referred to as Knife Box, their beautifully shaped lids open to reveal the cutlery decks in which there are apertures to fit almost any kind of culinary knives, forks, and spoons. The pair of “Knife Boxes” are equipped to hold 24 knives, 48 forks (including dining and dessert), and 42 different size spoons. This indicates that Knife Boxes could have been previously part of the accessories of a large, Stately House.

Another popular design looks more like an urn with turned finials and plinth bases. These “Cutlery Urns” have unique lids which lift straight up and suspend by sprung catches which support the lid up above the cutlery decks. Knife boxes would still make an elegant accessory to any setting today.