NOTE KNIFE Italian, 1st half of the 16th century. Edged and tapering ivory handle, the top and bottom of the handle engraved with a fruit garland and flowering vine. Stepped grip cap with inlaid metal plates and green-coloured ivory, the grip end rounded and applied with an acanthus leaf rosette. Square blade guard engraved with leaf decoration and remnants of gilding. Spatula blade with decorative point, engraved with song lyrics and musical accompaniment (blessing and thanksgiving for the meal). "Gratiarum actio Bassus / Pro tuis beneficiis deus gratias agimus tibi" or "Benedictio mensae bassus / quae sumturi sumus benedicat trinus et unus Amen". L 29.5 cm. Slight signs of ageing, slight abrasion to the green colouring, minor cracks. Gilding rubbed. For further details see catalogue text for lot 1620. This object has a trade licence for the EU. Due to the use of protected materials, this object may not leave the EU.