Lime Spatula

Admiralty Islands
19th-early 20th century

Previous Collection: Private Italian Collection

Spatulas for the application of Lime can be found all over Oceania. This example is from the Admiralty Islands; figurative sculpture from this area is difficult to acquire. This example consists of a finely carved ancestor with elaborate headdress. There is great attention to detail; such as a delineated scapula, and arms that are carved away from the body. The patina is rich and deep from generations of use and handling. In excellent condition.

 Figure’s height: 4 in / 10.2 cm