Norwegian Hand-carved Wooden "Love Spoon" or Wedding Spoon whalers but which now I think

but which now I think would make an excellent pair of bookends

8" tall each

and otherwise in very good antique condition

only visible when opened

Norwegian Hand-carved Wooden "Love Spoon" or Wedding Spoon whalers but which now I thinkThe tradition of carved wooden "Love spoons" apparently dates to mid 1600s, when they were made by young men as gifts for the objects of their affection in hopes of beginning a courtship. Often incredibly ornate, with whimsy type elements showing the prowess of their makers, they came to be carved throughout Europe in a variety of styles. This one, which I'd guess dates to the 1960s or so, was made in Hus Flid Norway (the original sticker is still on