Eiffel Tower Absinthe Spoon 'Epoque'

The Exposition Universelle of 1889 had a profound impact on France, and Paris in particular. The exposition displayed wonders from around the world, never seen before in the west, and marvels of science and engineering that must have seemed like witchcraft to many. However, one part of the exposition would have a lasting effect: the building of the Eiffel Tower would change the world's idea of the city forever. Considering it is still standing more than one hundred years after it was supposed to be dismantled, we can consider it was an overwhelming success. Of course, the Eiffel Tower is now the quintessential image of Paris, and this spoon is an example of how it started.

Spoons featuring the Eiffel Tower were sold around the time of the exposition as souvenirs, and originals are now much sought after by collectors. This reproduction absinthe spoon features an Eiffel tour bordered by exhibition pavilions, and is decorated with holes bordering the tower, dots and crosses, all allowing delicious sugared water to drip into the awaiting absinthe below.

Head Design

The sides are folded slightly to direct the flow of water and sugar.

Did you know?

At the time the Eiffel Tower was an incredible engineering feat, but it wasn't popular with everyone, especially some who thought it might fall over. When it was opened, the tower was by far the tallest man-made structure in the world, so it's not surprising some were concerned.

The author Maupassant was supposed to have said he hated the tower so much he ate lunch in the only place it wasn't possible to see it: inside the tower's restaurant itself.

Antique absinthe spoons featuring the Eiffel tower can sell for thousands of euros, although buyer beware: there could be hundreds of times more fake Eiffel Tower spoons out there than genuine ones!