LIME SPATULA

Aire Massim, South-East Papua New Guinea

nineteenth century

Wood

H.: 32.5; L.: 4; Th: 1 cm

The handle, particularly worked in scroll incisions, is animated by two back-to-back anthropomorphic figures. Included in rectangular zigzag rings, they are symmetrically sculpted, both offering a fishtail body ending, visible for one on one side, and the other on the back of the object.

The junction with the spatula is marked with two S-shaped scrolls in bas-relief.

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 a tool for sampling, dosing and placing the preparation on the betel leaves.