Betel Nut Mortar and Pestle (Dap Dap)
ClassificationsTools and Equipment-mortars
Date20th Century
Made AtPapua New Guinea
MediumWood
Dimensionsa: 6 × 2 × 2 in. (15.2 × 5.1 × 5.1 cm)
b: 9 1/2 × 1 × 1 in. (24.1 × 2.5 × 2.5 cm)
b: 9 1/2 × 1 × 1 in. (24.1 × 2.5 × 2.5 cm)
Credit LineLoan courtesy of Gayle and Edward P. Roski
Object numberL.2010.4.37a,b
DescriptionThis betel nut mortar and pestle, vernacular name known as Dap Dap, is from Papua New Guinea and dates to the 20th century. The carvings of the mortar bowl feature a serpentine design, and the pestle depicts an animal-like figure sitting on top of it. 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.On View
On view
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century
20th Century