Wooden spoon

Carved wooden spoon, one piece and stained, paired with a wooden fork. Large size suggests primarily ornamental use; also indicated by leather tie for mounting/hanging on wall. The floral, leaf pattern carved is identical to fork. Carving includes scroll work.

The wooden utensils were donated by Frank Danesi, the brother of internees Antonio and Pietro Danesi. The two brothers were arrested at their work -- the Florentine Lighting Company. Owner Massimo Iacopo Magi and fellow co-worker Ruggero Bacci were also interned.

The carver is unknown. However, many internees brought wooden objects home to their families, including elaborate ships, mirrors, painted reliefs, jewellery boxes and serving trays. Letters from the camps relate how many of the men occupied their time by carving wood.