Set of Six Brass Forks

Though chopsticks have become the quintessential dining utensil in China, forks were were being used by the Chinese elite as far back as the Xia dynasty (2070-1600 BC), over 4,000 years ago. These early forks were delicately carved of animal bone with two or three prongs. Although chopsticks eventually surpassed the fork in popularity, this set of six two-pronged forks show that the utensil remained in use well into the 20th century. Simply formed of brass, the forks have developed a unique patina that speaks to their age and use.