Fortune Cookies










Fortune Cookies
Free form hot sculpted glass
2 x 2 x 1 in [or larger]
5 x 5 x 2.5 cm [or larger]
The Fortune Cookies Series is reintroducing a beloved American ritual as a symbol of resilience. Each one is hand crafted by Momoko Schafer in San Francisco, California.
The mysterious but fascinating Crystal Fortune Cookies are fantastic gifts for any occasion. Its a treat that reminds us the beautify that comes from merging different cultures and creating new traditions.
Each piece comes with a “fortune” or positive affirmations printed on satin. They come in a unique washi tea canister and informational cards regarding the origins of this multicultural tradition:
Soon to be on display at Karl Art San Francisco in celebration of AAPI Heritage month.
Currently on display at On Waverly in Chinatown, San Francisco.
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! Round 3
This current batch is limited. Prices are adjusted as the form, techniques, and presentation continue to develop.
Contact for gift wrapping and notes.
Dimensions and details may vary due to the nature of creative expression.
Materials are sourced from Japan, Sweden, Italy, and Canada. There is a strong possibility that the cost of my work will rise due to global economics in the near future.
The Lesser Known History of the Fortune Cookie:
In the US these treats are known as a Chinese takeout dessert. Its origins aren’t completely clear but it most likely comes from Japanese crackers, osenbei, and the fortune telling traditions of omikuji.
The first fortune-telling tea cracker is believed to have been served at San Francisco’s Japanese Tea Garden. During WWII all things Japanese became taboo but this fortune cracker was adopted and continued to be served by Chinese Americans, hence its current association.
The evolution into its final form as the vanilla flavored wafer treat with a hidden note is uniquely American. I find the cultural fusion and the resilience of the Fortune Cookie to be fascinating and worth capturing in a crystalline form.