The tradition of making miniature nave ships by jewellers in Germany and Holland dates back to the Middle Ages. They were symbols of life, votive objects, they also served as wine vessels at secular meals, saltcellars or cruet-stands for spice and, finally, as table decorations, which were set in front of the distinguished guest. Due to their sacred significance, naves were supposed to fend spices from poisoning and thus protect their owners from intoxication, as well as from miseries and the difficulties of life or provide salvation during shipwreck. However, as early as in the 16th century ship-shaped goblets lost this signification and became mere table decoration. Miniature models of ships with the appropriate rigging and full equipment, characterized by complexity of design, accuracy and subtlety of execution, were wide spread at that time. It might be considered as a kind of response to the great geographical discoveries and navigation development. European jewellers of the second half of the 19th century that worked in the Historism style, once more referred to "reproduction" of similar table decorations, the style characterized by reconstruction and repeating of ancient forms and borrowing ornamental motifs from the bygone era art.

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