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Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap), 20th Century Papua New Guinea, Melanesia Wood, painted…
Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap)
Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap), 20th Century Papua New Guinea, Melanesia Wood, painted…
Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap), 20th Century Papua New Guinea, Melanesia Wood, painted metal umbrella handle and beads; 9 × 1 1/2 × 2 in. L.2010.4.26a,b Loan courtesy of Gayle and Edward P. Roski

Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap)

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-mortars
Date20th Century
Made AtPapua New Guinea
MediumWood, foil, metal, shell and pigment
Dimensionsa: 7 × 1 1/2 × 2 in. (17.8 × 3.8 × 5.1 cm)
b: 9 × 1 × 1 in. (22.9 × 2.5 × 2.5 cm)
Credit LineLoan courtesy of Gayle and Edward P. Roski
Object numberL.2010.4.26a,b
DescriptionThis betel nut mortar and pestle, vernacular name known as Dap Dap, is from Papua New Guinea and dates to the 20th century. Betel nut, when mixed and chewed with lime powder, becomes a mild stimulant. Chewing betel is a special occasion ritual that occurs at weddings, funerals, births and settlements of disputes; it is present in less formal situations such as a welcoming offer to guests; and on a daily basis as it is habit forming. Beautifully decorated mortars used to crush the nut are found throughout New Guinea. Some are traded widely and some are presented as bride price.
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