17th-18th century naveta

17th-18th century naveta.
Silver.
Without hallmarks.
Weight: 518,7 g.
Measurements: 13 x 16,5 x 7,8 cm.

The naveta in tender lacks decoration, so it could have belonged to both religious and profane. It stands on a simple circular foot and has a body in the form of a ship, with a prominent prow and a stern in tornapunta. Only one of the sides is practicable (the navetas could have one or two lids), with a hinged lid.
The naveta is a type of religious silverware that appeared in the 13th century, and whose function is to store the incense used during the rite. In the 15th century, perhaps due to the influence of overseas voyages, these types of pieces began to copy the shape of ships of the time, from simple navetas with the shape of the hull of a real ship to authentic masterpieces that even include the woodwork. It was also at this time that the naveta transcended the religious sphere and began to be used in table service, as a spice rack.