Lime Spatula
ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-spatulas-lime spatulas
Dateearly 20th Century
Made AtOro Province, Papua New Guinea
MediumWood
Dimensions7 1/4 × 2 × 5/16 in. (18.4 × 5.1 × 0.8 cm)
Credit LineBowers Museum Purchase
Object number2014.18.3
DescriptionLime spatulas traditionally were of premiere importance within the Collingwood Bay area. The area lacked a system of formalized ancestor worship and as such had no tradition of figural sculpture. Lime spatulas held a deep significance and hallowed respect, signifying status, chiefdom, ownership and historical record. Today, lime spatulas are most frequently used as heirlooms and reminders of deceased family members. Lime spatulas from Collingwood Bay have historically been seen as less artistically significant than those from the Massim area due to their minimalistic design. The spatulas have their own orderly motifs that suggest artistic skill. The crescent-shaped design featured at the top of this example refers to the open mouth of the wangi nuwa, a bush bird.On View
On viewCollections
early 20th Century
early 20th Century
