Born with a silver spoon is an axiom all of us are aware of, but after visiting the DIA exhibition on Art of Dining, I want to rethink this as ‘jade spoon’!
Spoons have been used since the Paleolithic era, with early versions made from shells and wood.
Archaeological evidence suggests that ornamental spoons date back to 1000 BC in Ancient Egypt, crafted from materials like ivory and slate for religious purposes.
The design evolved over the centuries from denoting wealth & status to being an everyday object.
However, these exquisite spoons are not everyday objects but fine examples of the craft of who else but the Mughals!
- Bird-Headed Spoon
Artists in India, about 1600-50
Jade, inlaid with gold and set with rubies and emeralds
2. Spoon
Artists in India, 1600s-1700s
Gold, set with rubies
and enameled
