What Is a Christening Gift?

A "christening" is a baptismal ceremony performed upon conversion to Christianity.

While the way baptism is performed varies by country and Christian denomination, in Britain at the time, it was customary for children to be baptized at the church within their first year of life if their parents were Christians.
In Japan, this is similar to the celebration of a child's first seasonal festival.

A christening gift is an item given at baptism to wish the baby a lifetime of health and success.

Christening gifts are sometimes made of pewter or silver plate, but wealthy families chose sterling silver.

In Britain, it was customary to use a spoon to perform a baby's first meal ceremony at baptism, and the proverb "born with a silver spoon in one's mouth" refers to a child born into a wealthy family.

Characteristics of Christening Gifts

Wishes and History Imbued in Silver

Many christening gifts are silver-colored.
In Europe, silver has long had value as currency, so it was customary to give silver coins and other items to symbolize a child's future financial stability.

It is also said that silver's antibacterial properties led parents to encourage their children to suck on silver spoons during the Black Death in medieval Europe.

During the Tudor period in Britain (1485–1603), it became widespread to give silver spoons engraved with the figures of the apostles, known as "apostle spoons."

Christening gifts flourished during the late Victorian era in the 19th century, and not only spoons but also cutlery sets, mugs, napkin rings, and various other items began to be given.

Commemorative Engravings and Luxurious Cases

Because christening gifts are personal presents, they are often engraved with the giver's or child's initials, as well as the date of the baptism or birth.
Many are also distinguished by their luxurious cases.

Types of Christening Gifts

1. Silver Cutlery

As expected, the most common items are silver cutlery, including spoons.
In addition to spoons, sets may include knives and forks, bowls, plates, napkin rings, egg cups, and other items.

2. Cups

These are slightly smaller mugs with handles, known as christening cups.
Many are beautiful sterling silver cups adorned with elaborate, intricate designs.

3. Other Items

Rattles and silver coins are also traditional christening gifts.
More recent examples include photo frames and music boxes.

Summary

A christening gift is a keepsake for a lifetime.
In particular, items given to children from wealthy families are often elaborately decorated, and many are exceptionally beautiful examples of antique silver.

Cutlery and cups are often slightly smaller than full-sized dining sets and cups, making them a perfect size for Japanese people with smaller hands.

Since standard cutlery sets usually contain six or more pieces, you may want to look for christening cutlery if you are searching for a special set of your own.