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| “When a table is set, the position of the forks may vary according to the tradition and origin of the silverware. Their tines may face either upward or downward.” |
The Beauty of Little Details
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in etiquette and protocol is the endless opportunity to discover meaningful details every day and everywhere we go.
Details and knowledge are what make the difference. We do not notice what we do not know.
When a table is set, the position of the forks may vary according to the tradition and origin of the silverware. Their tines may face either upward or downward.
In the French tradition, fork tines face downward towards the tablecloth, however, in the English tradition they face upward. The knife, in both traditions, remains the same, its cutting edge always faces the plate.
The explanation is just a little detail of where their silver brand engraving is found in order to display them.
Before 1770, European silver also set their forks facing down and it was not until English table settings began turning their forks over when their engravings were moved to the front. France, retained this custom, while much of Europe gradually abandoned it between 1770 and 1830.
“Jean-Robert Pitte — geographer and Permanent Secretary of the *Académie des Sciences Morales et Politiques* — explains this history and supports preserving the tradition for a reason well understood in hospitality: tines facing downward feel far more welcoming than greeting a guest with what may resemble a threatening rake.”@hospitalityandbutler
This is only an example of the many small details we can discover in a beautiful table setting. Each requires a little knowledge to understand why both styles have their own particular charm.
Details and sensitivity are what transform a properly set table into a magnificent one.
I often describe table etiquette as a masterpiece in motion: a theatrical performance in which every element has an important role and a reason behind its place.
When a table setting is executed flawlessly, those details create memorable experiences we sometimes feel without realizing the effort, practice, and knowledge behind the “stage”.
Contributor, Isabel. E. Martinez, who was educated in Business Management at the Universidad Católica Andrés Bello, in Caracas, Venezuela. After relocating for a few years to Miami, Florida, Isabel developed a company teaching computer skills. Among her clients were Baccardi in Bermuda, and Mavesa, Telcel (Movistar), and Heinz in Venezuela. That is when she discovered her passion for teaching. As her children became adults, she shifted her focus and dedicated her time to teach on subjects she is very passionate about; Hospitality and Table Etiquette. Throughout workshops in English and in Spanish, Isabel works with employees in the hospitality industry, and those business professionals who when interacting with customers, would like to make sure that they are the most professional representations of their companies. Especially when attending business lunches and events. She also offers youth and teen courses in etiquette, helping them to excel with integrity and pride in whatever field they desire to pursue. To learn more about Isabel, visit her website: www.learningschool2.com or @isasetiquette
🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia
