I posted watermelon art in my previous post. Let me add some more funny and interesting fruit and vegetable arts.

History of fruit and vegetable carving and more funny arts in next page.

Xiang Wang explains the history of the art:

The exquisite craft of fruit and vegetable carving developed very slowly, constantly adapting to the prosperity of the population. At the time of the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-906) and the Sung Dynasty (AD 960-1279) the garnishing of food was already widespread in China. Splendid fruit decorations or pastry models of animals and humans were not only created for the Kaiser’s feudal banquets; indeed, this art was also practiced amongst the middle classes.

According to Pam Manneeratana:

The Thai Art of Fruit and Vegetable Carving is a valuable heritage of Thailand and one of its oldest art forms. It was originated in 1364 when Nang Nopamas decorated the floating lamp for the Royal Festival celebrated on the night of the full moon of the 12th month of every year. She carved fruits and vegetables in a variety of flowers which were used to decorate the floating lamp, making It look like a huge water lily flower. When the King Phra Ruang saw what she had created, he appreciated this new innovation and decreed that it would be an art heritage of Thailand and should be taught to all Thai ladies. This knowledge has been passed on through generations only in person and to loved ones, especially in the Royal Palace.

Links: history | Saxton Freymann