In Europe, and in the European colonies of the Americas, the pincapple has been a symbol of welcome, and of hospitality. Balustrades of French castles can be adorned with pinapple finials, elaborate silver centerpieces for royal dining tables prominently figure the fruit, and American folk art has long used a simply carved pineapple on a front door to provide a welcoming atmosphere.
The symbolic use of the pineapple dates back to the 17th Century in Europe, according to a fascinating
website on the social history of the pineapple.Because pineapples were extraordinarily expensive at the time, a pineapple was often displayed prominently in the centerpiece of a dining table. When the doors of the dining room were opened to receive guests, a pineapple was one of the sights that dazzled their eyes. From this use derives the symbolic connection between the pineapple and a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a home, be it castle or cottage.
