Ritual Spoon

Ifugao tribe, Philippines
Early 20th century

Provenance: Important American collection. The hieratic figure carved on the handle of this spoon is known as a bin-nullol, a guardian figure linked to the bulul, wooden-carved protective figures allowing a good rice harvest for the Ifugao people. The spoon has been extensively used, probably in serving wine and food, and shows a finely aged patina. Its fathomless expression makes it a magnetic , captivating piece of art.