Epergne
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f7/Stannard%2C_Eloise_Harriet_-_A_Still_Life_of_Flowers_in_a_Glass_Epergne_..._-_1889.jpg/220px-Stannard%2C_Eloise_Harriet_-_A_Still_Life_of_Flowers_in_a_Glass_Epergne_..._-_1889.jpg)
Epergne (/ɪˈpɜːrn, eɪ-/ ih-PURN, ay-) is a type of table centerpiece that is usually made of silver but may be made of any metal or glass or porcelain.
An epergne generally has a large central "bowl" or basket sitting on three to five feet. From this center "bowl" radiate branches supporting small baskets, dishes, or candleholders.[1] There may be between two and seven branches. Epergnes were traditionally made from silver, however from around the start of the 20th century, glass was also employed.
Name[]
The derivation is probably from the French épargne meaning "saving," the idea being that dinner guests were saved the trouble of passing dishes (although an epergne in French is called a surtout). In addition the word épergne in French can also mean "spare", another way of saying "to save", or a spare, meaning "reserve or extra".
Usage[]
An epergne may be used to hold any type of food or dessert. It may also be used as a designer object to hold candles, flowers or ornaments for a holiday etc. In traditional use, an epergne is a fancy way to display side dishes, fruit, or sweetmeats, or can be used for chips, dips, or other finger foods etc
References[]
- ^ Bryson, Bill (2010). At Home: A Short History of Private Life. London: Doubleday. p. 163. ISBN 978-0-7679-1938-8.
External links[]
Media related to Epergnes at Wikimedia Commons
- Serving and dining
- Tableware
- Kitchenware stubs