Lime Spatula
ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-spatulas-lime spatulas
Culture
Massim
Dateearly 20th Century
Made AtMilne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
MediumWood and pigment
Dimensions25 × 2 × 1/8 in. (63.5 × 5.1 × 0.3 cm)
In stand: 26 1/4 × 2 1/2 × 2 1/2 in. (66.7 × 6.4 × 6.4 cm)
In stand: 26 1/4 × 2 1/2 × 2 1/2 in. (66.7 × 6.4 × 6.4 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. Michael Hamson
Object number2015.7.15
DescriptionSpatulas from the Massim area have various uses. These uses include wealth displays, guardian spirits, magical purposes, status markers, kula exchange items and utilitarian use as lime spatulas. The spatulas made for this last use are typically not as ornately carved as those used for the other purposes. While this example does feature designs and is large in size, it seems likely that it was used as a lime spatula, especially as it lacks openwork carving or the intricate designs found in other Massim examples. The designs on this piece are typical of the Massim area. The bird featured at the top is possibly a frigate bird. Ocean birds are often employed in art from this area.On View
On view
early 20th Century
early 20th Century
