Vtg Siam Bronzeware 6 Demitasse Appetizer Spoons Brass Wood in Box souvenir

Vintage, mid century, Thailand bronzeware demitasse spoon set in original box. This unused set has a fascinating history that makes it special beyond its style and utility: Bronzeware is an ancient craft in Thailand, long known as the Kingdom of Siam, which had craftsmen working with bronze alloys both in hammering and casting bowls and plates for eating and religious ceremonies. These items were highly valued as the material tarnished when it came in contact with dangerous substances (detected poisons) and therefore almost exclusive to royalty and elites for generations. For decades after WW2, Americans, mostly military from Guam, traveled to Thailand for recreation and looked for souvenirs to bring home. The Thai, noticing that, as well as learning about the western preference for eating with utensils and knowing the value of their bronzeware at home, started to have their master craftsmen make tableware using the ancient bronzeware techniques for sale to tourists. This is such a set. This box specifically, came from a visit to the Panang Island Festival in the 1970s. This annual trade exposition, which takes place throughout the month of December in the Sungai Nibong neighborhood of Penang, Malaysia, was established in 1970 to stimulate the local economy after the the Penang freeport status was revoked in 1969. It is a showcase of local art, culture, shopping and fun, where items from the many cultures of southeast Asia are available to visitors. This set is one of many produced for the festival to show off the Thai culture and its prized bronzeware for admirers outside of Thailand. This set was purchased and brought to the US in the 70s and has been sitting in storage until recently, never used. It is in very good condition, with only slight wear on the box and some tarnish due to age. The spoons measure 4 3/4" long and 3/4" at their widest points. A nice set (with an interesting history) for an espresso set or an interesting set to use at a bar for appetizer plates!
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