I found this in my in-laws’ drawer, where they store butter dishes and other items. What is it? The fork is for scale.

Bone for a Glass Dog: One person identified the object as a bone from a glass dog breed popular in the early 19th century, although their short lifespan made it difficult to keep these dogs viable.
A Serving Knife Rest: Many users confirmed that this item is a knife rest, especially useful for maintaining the integrity of lace tablecloths by providing a place to lay down your carving knife.
Baby Dumbbell: One user humorously mentioned that it could be a “baby dumbbell” to ensure babies don’t grow weak.
Part of Table Etiquette: Some users explained that these knife rests were traditionally placed at each setting, not just for carving knives, but also for other knives after use. The butter knife, however, remains on the bread plate.

What’s the Purpose of a Knife Rest?

A knife rest is a small, often decorative item designed to prevent the blade of a knife from touching the surface of a table or countertop. This serves both an aesthetic and a practical purpose, as it keeps your tablecloth clean and prevents the knife from leaving marks or stains. Knife rests come in various materials, from simple metal designs to more ornate versions made of silver, porcelain, and other fine materials.

Nostalgia and Tradition

Personal Memories: Several shared that their grandmothers owned knife rests and other elegant dining tools. One user recalled using salt cellars with crystal spoons for holiday dinners, a tradition now fading with younger generations unfamiliar with such customs.
Lack of Tradition Today: One comment lamented that younger generations no longer know how to “play” at fancy meals, with many opting for simpler, dishwasher-friendly items instead of cherished family heirlooms.

The Charm of Knife Rests

Knife rests, while practical, can add a charming touch to formal meals, providing an elegant way to protect your tablecloth and add a bit of flair to the dining experience. While they have fallen out of regular use in many modern homes, these objects remain a fond symbol of more formal dining traditions.