Oceanic Art - Lime Spatulas, Abelam People, Papua New Guinea

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Lime spatulas
Massim Culture, Papua New Guinea
Wood, lime
Mid 20th century

14, 16.25 and 14.75 inches high as based (35.5, 41.3 and 37.5 cm)
Ex private collection, Northern CA, purchased in Queensland, Australia, 1970-1973

Left: This single squatting figure spatula is likely from the Trobriand Islands and exhibits a pleasing symmetry in the zigzag motif on the arms and legs. Traces of lime infill remain, which highlights the repeating circular motifs on the head, belly, elbows, knees and shaft.
#2606   $1200

Center: A quadruple-figure spatula features two pairs of opposing figures over a nice medial ridge, which terminates in a zoomorphic head and scroll work. The space between the arms and legs of the upper figures has been carefully carved out.

#2607   $1500

Right: A very stylized frigate bird tops this slender spatula.
#2608   $1000



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