Chopsticks

Chopsticks holders were traditionally part of a dowry and symbolizes the hope for newlyweds to have (male) children as the word for chopsticks (kuai zi 筷子) is a Chinese pun for ‘speedy arrival of sons.” Stoneware holders included the phrase baizi qiansun for “100 sons and 1000 grandsons” as well as an upside-down bat, a coin and a ribbon, a rebus for “blessings have arrived” as well as 2 birds symbolizing conjugal fidelity and a cloud and thunder decorative pattern, a symbol of life-giving rain and abundance. Chopstick holders were made in Shiwan, an area of kilns producing decorative and utilitarian ceramics.