Oriental Inspired Gifts

By J. A. Young

Giving a gift reflective of the Far East can make for a gift that is both practical and exotic. Gifts sporting ancient symbols of good luck or simply beautiful items that represent Eastern life can make your gift a memorable one. The following article discusses a wide array of gifts inspired by the Orient.

As Chinese cuisine is internationally beloved, giving a gift basket filled with a traditional Chinese cookbook, wok, bamboo steamer, chopsticks and Oriental place mat can be a wonderfully unique gift for any special occasion from a birthday to a bridal shower.

The Orient is anciently famous for its silk. Consider giving a silk handbag set, silk pillow, silk kimono or a Chinese embroidered silk blouse. There are also silk wall hangings on the market that make for extraordinary offerings.

Speaking of wall hangings, many depict classic scenes of traditional Oriental life. From serene mountain and stream scenes to the breathtaking scenes of the Geisha Floating World, wall hangings can be made from a variety of materials. From lacquered cork to inlaid wood, these make lovely gifts for a special event. Look for wall hangings depicting lucky carp or classical pagoda scenes.

Also, finely crafted Samurai swords or large Oriental painted fans can be hung on the wall as decorative pieces. Even contemporary oil paintings that feature Oriental women in domestic scenes or Oriental landscapes can be given as gifts. Consider an art book featuring the lovely Japanese block prints or a book about Oriental calligraphy. There are also many styles of Chinese calligraphy sets that make excellent gifts for any budding artist.

Speaking of Geisha, exquisite hand-crafted Geisha dolls make sensational gifts of mystical artistry. Quite collectible, it is possible to find such dolls which will become the focal point of any display case. Similarly, books about the Geisha also make fine gifts for anyone interested in Japanese culture.

Jewelry of the Orient is always a beautiful remembrance. From breathtaking imperial jade to the finely crafted pieces of cloisonné, Oriental-inspired jewelry is always in vogue. Pearls, perhaps, most of all are beloved around the world. Even a novelty charm bracelet sporting small charms representing the Oriental world can be delightful gifts. Also, consider giving an Oriental lacquer jewelry box.

Dragons have symbolized Chinese emperors for thousands of years. From dragon kites to dragon wall fountains, these classic creatures can be found at many international markets and make great gifts for dragon lovers.

A wonderful housewarming gift might be a set of Chinese patio lanterns along with a bamboo fountain for the outdoors. Many people find serenity from looking at Chinese or Japanese gardens—a book about bonsai or Oriental gardening might be appreciated.

Oriental vases and pottery make uniquely elegant gifts too. Ginger jars, fish bowls and sleek vases might depict scenes from Eastern life or classic Oriental designs. A Japanese tea set along with a supply of fine green tea is a wonderful gift suitable for any occasion.

Feng Shui items or books can be fine housewarming gifts as well. Look for brass prosperity bells or resin statuary like turtles or frogs that bring good luck and prosperity to the premises.

Finally, consider books about: the Chinese Dynasties, the Great Wall, Japanese Samurai, Confucius, the Yellow River, the first Chinese Emperor, Chinese foot binding history, the Opium War history, the Forbidden City, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Kyoto, Mongols, Tibetan monks, the Gobi Desert, tea ceremonies, Korea, and so much more.

As this area of the world as such a rich and interesting past, there will be no shortage of items to consider as gifts for anyone who has a love for this part of the world.

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