Treasures from Wales - Lovespoons

Artisans who create love spoons have always added unique touches to reflect themselves and the world around them. If the love spoon is a gift of love, then the craftsman incorporates symbols to show the depth of their feelings.

The symbols used by the carvers throughout time are both simple and complex, bound only by the imagination and dexterity of the carver. There are literally hundreds of symbols that can be used, but here I have highlighted some of the most commonly used and their meanings.

Heart - means love and affection. If the bowl of the spoon is craved in a heart shape, this can signify a wish to share a full and bountiful life together.

Chain - symbolizes loyalty and faithfulness and the linking together of two people.

Balls or seeds in a cage - represents the number of children hopefully to be borne to a marriage. A single ball or seed can represent a heart captured in a cage of love. The cage, ball, seed and chain symbols show the skill and dexterity of the carver.

Anchor - denotes a desire to settle down or 'weigh anchor'. Also stands for steadfastness and security.

Ship - expresses the wish for a safe passage though life.

Locks - Safety and security for the home.

Keys and keyholes - indicate the key to heart and home, while crossed keys signify home and security.

Flowers and leaves - a symbol of gentleness and growing closer.

Twisted stems - stems that are formed in a double twist indicate two lives that belong together.

Vines, flowers and fruit - together are the symbols for a long and fruitful life.

Trees - the age old symbol of strength and fertile growth.

Birds - a symbol of love.

Spade - a willingness to work.

Shield - offers protection.

Diamond - the symbol of good fortune.

Soul Signs - comma shaped and found together in pairs indicates affection.

Dragon - the Welsh national emblem, which also denotes strength.

Daffodil - the Welsh national flower and symbol of gentleness and growth.

Two bowls on a spoon can indicate the desire to care for one another and the melding of two lives into one.

Love spoons are and were created to bring joy to the person who owns it. These handcrafted pieces can be passed though the generations as a family heirloom and continuation of an ancient and wonderful tradition. A visit to Wales would not be complete without taking home ones of the traditional pieces that are sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.