Ritual Spoon

Timor, Tetum people, Indonesia
19th c

Provenance: Rodger Dashow collection, Boston. Published: “Indonesian Tribal Art”, Carpenter, Bruce, 2015, pg. 267

Carved from buffalo horn, this ceremonial spoon from Timor is a remarkable example of both traditional craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity. Though small in scale, it is monumental in quality, displaying an extraordinary level of detail and symbolism.

The handle is intricately carved with interconnected birds, a design that is both elegant and powerful. Their imposing expressions elevate this spoon beyond mere functionality, transforming it into a striking miniature masterpiece. What makes this piece particularly exceptional is the uppermost bird head, which features two distinct sets of eyes. When viewed from the side, the bird’s eyes take the form of radiant suns, while from the front, a second set of hourglass-shaped eyes with deeply carved pupils emerges, adding a fascinating dimension to the design.

The spoon’s deep, lustrous patina is a testament to its ritual use over time. Its finely carved bowl is equally impressive, beautifully shaped with remarkable precision. This exceptional piece remains in excellent condition, preserving its rich history and artistic significance.