Trousse’s or eating sets were commonly used by the Chinese, especially the Manchu since the 18th century. During the reign of emperor Qianlong (1735-1796) the Manchu were forbiden to eat pre-cut meat because of the strict Manchu tradition of eating in the rough outdoors. Being able to cut flesh from straight from the animal was considered an important tradition. During the late 18th and 19th century many people wore eating sets of a wide variety in quality.
China, Tibetan/Sichuan border region – 19th century or older
Materials: Buffaloo Horn, Steel, Brass, Ivory (Elephas Maximus), Paktong, Silk, Coral (Non-CITES)
Status: Available