17th century naveta

Naveta of the XVII century.
Silver.
Without hallmarks.
Weight: 329,5 g.
Measurements: 9 x 17,5 x 8,7 cm.

The naveta that we present here lacks figurative decoration, so it could have belonged to both religious and profane spheres. It stands on a simple foot with a stepped base, and has a boat-shaped body, with a prominent stern and bow. Only one of the sides is practical (the navetas could have one or two lids), with a hinged lid. The piece is decorated with chiseled turnstones and scrolls.
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.