Elegant Chinese ‘Shou’ trousse

Trousses 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 forbidden to eat pre-cut meat because of the strict Manchu tradition of eating in the rough outdoors. Being able to cut flesh straight from the animal was considered as an important tradition. During the late 18th and 19th century many people wore eating sets of a wide variety in quality.

This example:
A very fine example of a Chinese trousse or eating set containing a very well made knife, bone chopsticks and a wooden case with gilded brass fittings and horn hilt. The blade is pattern welded, shows a carbon cutting edge and has a brass simplified ‘Shou’ (壽) symbol. The fittings are made of gilded brass with a fine engraved design of ‘rolling thunder’ or ‘manji’ motif. On top of the fittings are several ‘paktong’ attachments placed depicting birds, butterfly’s and bats. One small brass utility tool is placed inside the wooden case and also depicts a ‘shou’ symbol. Longevity and happiness seemed important auspicious symbols for its former owner.
The locket shows friezes of well chiseled floral motifs stretching over the entire fitting. The suspension ring has a ribbon of deer hide attached to carry the trousse in ones garb.