The lovespoon is a traditional craft that dates back to the seventeenth century. Over generations, decorative carvings were added to the spoon and it lost its original practical use and became a treasured decorative item to be hung on a wall. The lovespoon was given to a young woman by her suitor. It was important for the girl's father to see that the young man was capable of providing for the family and woodworking. Sailors would often carve lovespoons during their long journeys. The symbols used on this spoon have specific meanings: bells for marriage, hearts for love, etc. Other difficult carvings, such as chains, were as much a demonstration of the carver's skill as a symbolic meaning, Making this a great present for your significant other. This is a non functional spoon that has been hand-carved and finished with butcher block conditioner.