The Art of the Table
by Suzanne von Drachenfels

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Simon & Schuster, November 2000
Hardcover, 592 pages
ISBN: 0684847329
More Information:
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Review by Sherri Allen:

Suzanne von Drachenfels is an expert in table settings, tableware and table manners. In her marvelous book, The Art of the Table, she shares her extensive and impressive knowledge of all things related to proper dining, from selecting and caring for plates to planning menus and choosing wine.

Dinnerware (plates, bowls, cups), flatware (knives, spoons, forks) and stemware (glasses) are all discussed in depth. The section for each begins by presenting the evolution of the tableware item through history. Decorative aspects and materials are examined. Individual pieces are identified, along with the correct placement and use of each. There is even helpful guidance for selecting and caring for the different types of tableware.

The Art of the Table doesn't end with putting the plates and forks in the right places. Table linens are also discussed, with illustrated instructions demonstrating several napkin-folding techniques. There is a good discussion of the "rules" of service for various types of formal and informal dining, helpful tips for seating, saying a blessing, and making toasts. There is a comprehensive section on menu planning that goes beyond just choosing food; it also teaches you how to select, store and serve the right wine, tea and coffee. Table manners are explained, with guidance for eating specific foods in addition to general instruction. The one thing I expected to see in The Art of the Table that was not included is a discussion of centerpieces. Maybe, at almost 600 pages, von Drachenfels felt there just wasn't room for any more information?

Regardless of centerpieces, what elevates The Art of the Table above a manual for just setting the table is that, in addition to getting a thorough education in proper dining, you learn the lessons of the past and how the mealtime experience has evolved. In addition to teaching the use and placement of each kind of fork, for example, this book gives the history of the various forks. If you don't know the difference between your dinner fork and your salad fork, you will learn from this book. If you already understand the basics but need help indentfying your strawberry fork, you will learn from this book. Even if you are already familiar with all 13 forks used in table settings but don't know when or why they were originally introduced, you will learn something from The Art of the Table. I recommend this book for everyone, from novice hosts who just fix dinner for their families to those who regularly plan and attend formal events.

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