Welsh Lovespoon Gallery, Cardiff

The Welsh Lovespoon Gallery, located within the Castle Welsh Crafts shop in Cardiff, offers a unique glimpse into a cherished cultural tradition. Since opening in 1970, the gallery has become a central hub for the display and sale of hand-crafted Welsh lovespoons, distinguishing itself by featuring authentic works made by skilled craftspeople throughout Wales. Unlike many lovespoons sold as souvenirs that are mass-produced outside of Wales, those at this gallery uphold the craftsmanship and tradition dating back centuries.

A standout feature of the gallery is a monumental 6.7-meter-long lovespoon, masterfully carved by Ed Harrison of Pontsian, Ceredigion, in 1989. This impressive piece underscores the artistic and cultural significance of lovespoon carving in Welsh tradition.

Lovespoons have deep historical roots, with the oldest known example in Wales dating back to 1667, housed at the National Museum of Wales. Originally, these wooden spoons were carved by young men as a romantic gesture towards women they admired. Acceptance of the spoon often signified the beginning of a courtship. The spoons not only demonstrated the carver's skill and ability to provide but were also practical, highly-valued household items.

The handles of these spoons typically feature carved symbols, each with specific meanings-a heart for love, a diamond for wealth, and a chain indicating a desire for a lasting relationship. Today, the gallery continues to celebrate this tradition by offering lovespoons that include both traditional and contemporary designs, such as those by Richard Downes, which integrate modern symbols like friendship.

The Welsh Lovespoon Gallery in Cardiff thus serves as a cultural repository and artistic showcase, preserving and promoting a unique form of Welsh heritage through its exquisite collection of hand-carved lovespoons.