"According to Welsh folklore, ornately carved spoons were given as a token of love from a young man to a woman. He would spend hours carving the spoon by hand, in the hope that the girl would accept it. The carvers would attempt to create more and more intricate designs as they vied for the attractions of a certain girl. The more complicated and difficult the design, the more it would symbolize the depth of the creator's love. Spoons could suggest food on the table, and a cozy family life, which would impress on the girl his ability to care for her and a family.If the man succeeded in capturing the girl's heart, the spoon would be treasured and proudly displayed in their home, much as a wedding photograph would be today. When a girl accepted the spoon, the young people would embark on a relationship and be seen as a 'couple' by their community. The earliest surviving example is dated around 1667, although the tradition existed long before that".
Very cool! :)





















