Spoon
Timor, Indonesia
19th c
Provenance: Collected before 1925 by W.O.J. Nieuwenkamp, author of “Kunst Van Timor”. By descent to family member.
Spoons made of buffalo horn were traditionally used in Timor, as eating utensils. The buffalo horn was a common material used for making spoons and other household items due to its durability and availability in the region. The handles of the spoons are often decorated with carved designs of birds, certain bird species are considered to have special cultural or religious significance, and carving their images onto everyday objects such as spoons can serve as a way to honor and pay respect to these birds. This handle has been intricately carved with a flock of birds of various sizes, covering the entire surface. The deep patina and signs of wear on the surface are a testament to the many decades of use that it has seen.
Megapode bird (Megapodius freycinet): Megapode birds are also known as “mound builders” because they build large mounds of soil and leaves in which to lay their eggs. These mounds are considered to be sacred sites in some Timorese communities, and the eggs are used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Maleo bird (Macrocephalon maleo): In some parts of Timor, the Maleo bird is considered sacred and believed to have mystical powers. Its eggs are highly prized and are used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Spoon
Timor, Indonesia
19th c
Provenance: Collected before 1925 by W.O.J. Nieuwenkamp, author of “Kunst Van Timor”. By descent to family member.
Spoons made of buffalo horn were traditionally used in Timor, as eating utensils. The buffalo horn was a common material used for making spoons and other household items due to its durability and availability in the region. The handles of the spoons are often decorated with carved designs of birds, certain bird species are considered to have special cultural or religious significance, and carving their images onto everyday objects such as spoons can serve as a way to honor and pay respect to these birds. This handle has been intricately carved with a flock of birds of various sizes, covering the entire surface. The deep patina and signs of wear on the surface are a testament to the many decades of use that it has seen.
Megapode bird (Megapodius freycinet): Megapode birds are also known as “mound builders” because they build large mounds of soil and leaves in which to lay their eggs. These mounds are considered to be sacred sites in some Timorese communities, and the eggs are used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Maleo bird (Macrocephalon maleo): In some parts of Timor, the Maleo bird is considered sacred and believed to have mystical powers. Its eggs are highly prized and are used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
