Fire Tong
Aitape, North West Coast of Papua New Guinea. 19th Century

PROVENANCE: John Friede, Rye, New York.

Made of wood, this Fire Tong, from the Aitape, is an extraordinary object. The array of different patina is captivating; the tip of the tongs have been blackened from contact with high temperatures. The central portion appears much lighter, where a fibrous band would have once been wound around. The tong decoration is stone carved, and the handle has been sculpted to resemble a stylized zoomorphic figure, possibly a spirit. The splitting of the wood from the base of the object upwards is intentional for utilitarian purposes.

Height: 15 " in.
IN. 6-8-14 / Price on Request