Origin of Bain Marie??

Hi, someone asked me yesterday why we use the term Bain Marie for a water bath. I have no idea.
Anyone?? Thanks!

By Claudia (Claudia) on Monday, January 24, 2000 - 11:30 am: Edit

I know that I have read somewhere that Mary's Bath refers to the Virgin Mary and to the gentle heat in this type of cooking. I think it dates back to the Middle Ages. Of course, I can't find the source.

By Dominique (Dominique) on Thursday, January 27, 2000 - 12:43 am: Edit

Thanks...
Sounds as good an origin as any. LOL