Lime Spatula & Clapper

Massim, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th Century

PROVENANCE: Private Collection, New York City.

This lime spatula from the Massim would have served two very different functions. As a spatula, it would bring lime from its container to the mouth, but when slapped against one's thigh, it would have been used as an acoustic component. The spatula is beautifully decorated, with stylized faces and combined with engraved patterning, which still contain traces of lime infill.

Height: 12 1/4 " in.
IN. 6-13-14 / Price on Request