Roman three-pronged fork, brass
The idea that the fork was invented in the Middle Ages is a common misconception. Although forks were only introduced to Western Europe at this time (and much later to Northern Europe), archaeological finds show that they were already in use in the Roman era. However, Roman forks seem to have been much rarer than Roman spoons(cochlearia and ligulae). Archaeologists believe that they were mainly used for serving food rather than as cutlery, although it cannot be entirely ruled out that they may also have been used as table forks.
Various excavations have revealed a number of more or less elaborate examples in many shape variations - with two, three or even (rarely) four prongs and different handle configurations. Although it is rare to find forks made of bone, most of the surviving examples (displayed in museums throughout Europe) were made of base or precious metals such as silver or bronze.
The simplest two-pronged fork probably dates from the Roman Empire and was an improvement on the skewer for serving food or carving meat. These two-pronged forks were probably used until the end of antiquity. Three- and four-pronged forks, which could also serve as tableware, are mostly dated to late antiquity (ca. 3rd-5th century AD). All types, whether used as serving, serving or table forks, are thought to have been the preserve of the more affluent middle and upper classes.
This replica of a small Roman three-pronged fork(fuscinula) is made of brass. It has a straight handle with simple but elegant details and is finished with a sharp point. This handsome piece of Roman cutlery is ideal for living history and a great addition to any Roman reenactor's equipment.
- Material: brass
- Overall length: approx. 13.5 cm
- Head dimensions: approx. 2.8 cm (length) / 1.4 cm (width)
- Weight: approx. 5 g
Not suitable for direct contact with food.