17thC Nutmeg Grater, c1690

This late 17th century nutmeg grater is in the typical cylindrical form for the period with geometric engraving around the centre and a Tudor rose to the removable cap. The base is crudely engraved with original "MW" initials. There is an original removable silver rasp to the interior.

Clearly marked with a "HB" maker's mark to the base, this is an excellent example of an early nutmeg grater.

Nutmeg was used to flavour food and drink to persional tastes and so the silver pocket container was designed to carry a whole nutmeg that could be grated as and when required.