Prestigious LIME SPATULA Gabaela - Milne Bay Province, Aire Massim, Papua New Guinea - 19th century

Prestige LIME SPATULA Gabaela

Milne Bay Province, Aire Massim, Papua New Guinea

nineteenth century

Scale

H.: 19; L.: 13 cm

This prestigious lime spatula is called Gabaela or 'Nga. It is identifiable by its material as well as its characteristic shape reminiscent of a fan. Its straight, thin and short handle opens onto a finely incised crescent moon spatula. Certain regions equate parts of the human body to it: the spatula would be the head, the lateral ends would refer to the arms, the junction with the handle would be similar to the chest and finally, the handle could mean the nose, a foot, or even the male sexual attribute. Other regions turn the spatula over so as to see a canoe: the handle would then rise like a mast.

These spatulas are not intended for the absorption of lime but are reserved for ceremonies in the South of the Massim Area. They sometimes accompanied young women of marriageable age and thus constituted part of their dowry. They could also be used as currency.

Origin :

- Former Anthony Meyer Gallery collection.

- Former Galerie Flak collection.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

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