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Bruce Frank Primitive Art
New York City, NY
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Lime Spatula with Janus Figures

Massim, Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th c

Provenance: Grace Goldberg collection, Harrison, NY, acquired in 1970 from Roberta Nochimson Entwistle.  Inventory Number “N236” painted in white on the spatulas blade. By descent to family member

This spatula is adorned with two opposing Janus figures at the top, which serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Trobrianders. In Oceanic art, Janus figures are symbols of duality, embodying the idea of past and future, life and death, and male and female. These figures have deep spiritual significance to the Trobrianders, who believe that they are intimately connected with the forces of nature and the spirits of their ancestors.

The lime spatula on offer is not only a beautiful work of art but also played a practical role in Trobriand Island culture. This spatula was used to prepare lime, which was an essential ingredient in chewing betel nut, a common social and ceremonial practice in the Trobriand Islands.

Lime Spatula with Janus Figures

Massim, Trobriand Islands, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
Early 20th c

Provenance: Grace Goldberg collection, Harrison, NY, acquired in 1970 from Roberta Nochimson Entwistle.  Inventory Number “N236” painted in white on the spatulas blade. By descent to family member

This spatula is adorned with two opposing Janus figures at the top, which serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Trobrianders. In Oceanic art, Janus figures are symbols of duality, embodying the idea of past and future, life and death, and male and female. These figures have deep spiritual significance to the Trobrianders, who believe that they are intimately connected with the forces of nature and the spirits of their ancestors.

The lime spatula on offer is not only a beautiful work of art but also played a practical role in Trobriand Island culture. This spatula was used to prepare lime, which was an essential ingredient in chewing betel nut, a common social and ceremonial practice in the Trobriand Islands.

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