The Medieval Banquet Table

On princely banqueting tables in castles and in the residences of aristocrats and rich merchants, the plates and goblets were made of metal (pewter, silver or silver gilt, sometimes with enamel decorations) and the chalices of blown glass imported from Murano or the Orient. Sgraffito-work and slip-painted earthenware was used only for some tableware, such as bowls for sauces and soups. Also the candlesticks that lit up the table were made of metal – copper, brass or bronze
– often in the shape of fantastical creatures and animals. The aquamaniles and basins for washing hands during meals were placed on the sideboard, which stood next to the table, as were the ceremonial dishes in painted earthenware with lustre decorations.