Who invented the napkin?

There is no specific record or documented evidence of a single inventor or individual who can be credited with solely inventing the napkin. Napkins have existed in various forms throughout history, originating from various cultures and civilizations. Here's a brief overview of the development of napkins:

1. Ancient Times:

- Ancient Greeks and Romans: In ancient times, napkins were primarily used for practical purposes, such as cleaning hands and surfaces, rather than for wiping the face or mouth during meals. They were often large and made of plain cotton, linen, or fabric remnants.

2. Middle Ages:

- Wealthy Households: During the Middle Ages, napkins gained more importance in dining rituals among wealthy households. They became larger and were sometimes ornately decorated with embroidery, lace, or even gold and silver threads.

3. Renaissance:

- Increased Refinement: The Renaissance period saw a rise in the usage of napkins for dining etiquette. Italian noble families in the 14th and 15th centuries began using decorative napkins made of silk, linen, or cotton, often elaborately embroidered with crests or coats of arms.

4. Modern Napkins:

- Paper Napkins: In the mid-19th century, paper napkins were invented. However, they initially gained limited popularity due to their perceived roughness compared to cloth napkins.

- Industrial Revolution: Mass production during the Industrial Revolution made paper napkins more affordable, leading to their wider adoption in many households.

Therefore, rather than a single inventor, it was a gradual evolution of dining practices and innovation in material production that led to the development of the napkin as a common table accessory in various cultures and regions.