LIME SPATULA - Aire Massim, South East of Papua New Guinea - 19th century

LIME SPATULA

Aire Massim, Southeast Papua New Guinea

nineteenth century

Wood and lime highlights

H.: 35.5; L.: 3; Thickness: 0.2 cm

Wooden spatula whose handle of rectangular section is cut in an asymmetrical way and perforated in its center. The decoration is incised and underlined with lime. Two zoomorphic figures with long beaks seem to evolve in this space. The smallest, beak up.

This same design is repeated on the reverse. This spatula side is less ornate. There is only a central register incised and openworked with an S.

This utilitarian object refers to a common practice among Melanesians: chewing lime.

Lime is obtained by burning shells and corals. Its composition is therefore white and powdery. The spatulas were used as utensils for taking, measuring out and arranging the preparation on the betel leaves.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON