A centrepiece (or centerpiece) is the most important item of a display, usually of a table setting. A centrepiece also refers to any central  or important object in a collection of items.

Purpose
On the table, a centrepiece is a large central object which serves a decorative purpose. A nef of precious metals made in the shape of a ship was a popular form in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. However, centrepieces should not be too large, to avoid difficulty with visibility

around the table and to allow for the easier serving of dishes.

Formal functions in Europe can sometimes have very elaborate centrepieces, which can span the entire length of the table.