David Western, prominent lovespoon artist and the author of The Fine Art of Carving Lovespoons, applies his knowledge, perspective and insight to give the reader an all-encompassing view of the history of heirloom lovespoons. Discover the significance of the symbols carved into almost every handle. Filled with rich, vivid photos and historical facts and legends.

David Western constantly endeavors to expand the artistic boundaries of lovespoon carving. David was born in Cardiff, Wales, and now resides in Victoria, B.C., Canada. A self-taught carver, David graduated from the London College of Furniture with certification in cabinetmaking and advanced furniture design. He also holds a degree in education from the University of British Columbia.While running a cabinetmaking shop in Victoria, David's casual interest in Welsh lovespoons grew into an overwhelming passion. Carving lovespoons to order is now his livelihood. David also teaches lovespoon carving at Camosun College in Victoria.David specializes in complicated and delicate Celtic knotwork. He also draws ideas from Art Deco, Northwest Coast First Nations, and Islamic art forms when creating his unique designs. He keeps a foot firmly in tradition though: each of his spoons is handcarved from a single piece of wood. All of David's spoons also demonstrate the deep passion and commitment that separate genuine lovespoons from mere souvenirs.

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For centuries, hand-carved wooden lovespoons have been used to demonstrate the deepest levels of love and affection. The history of this craft is steeped in rich tradition and symbolism. The carving of a lovespoon is a task that requires adept skill and concentration. These spoons showcase not only the carver's innermost feelings, but also his ability to shape wood into the finest and most delicate lines possible.

Inside History of Lovespoons, readers will learn how this beautiful and unique tradition came into being, and the significance of the symbols carved into almost every lovespoon handle. Filled with rich, vivid pictures of lovespoons from across Europe and Africa, and accompanied by their historical facts and legends, History of Lovespoons offers a highly engaging way to understand and appreciate this ancient romantic tradition. Gorgeous, full-page photos, assembled from museums and collectors around the world, illustrate the beauty and detail of each lovespoon.

A special chapter on lovespoon symbols takes an in-depth look at both traditional and modern lovespoons, examining the evocative symbols carved on their handles and explaining their significance and mystery to the reader. This highly visual section features close-up photos of each exquisite spoon, allowing the reader to fully grasp the meaning of the symbols.

David Western, prominent lovespoon artist and the author of The Fine Art of Carving Lovespoons, applies his knowledge, perspective and insight to give the reader an all-encompassing view of the history of heirloom lovespoons. He examines the origins of this 350 year-old tradition, reviews the myths and folklore that surround the spoons, and explains the significance of the many symbols carved into their handles. Whether it is because of the intricacy of the carving, the history and romance behind the work, or the appeal of a wonderful art form, readers are sure to be fascinated by this beautiful book.

Highland Woodworking