Lime spatula
Massim culture, Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea
Ebony wood, lime infill
Late 19th century
14 by 2 inches (35.5 by 5 cm)

A rare example of a lime spatula in the form of a dance paddle, called Kaidebu. The handle is carved in graceful curvilinear designs and the blade features a stylized snake head.

Ex private collection, Madison, WI; ex. Frank Marcelin, France; ex. John & Marcia Friede Collection, Rye, NY; ex. Harry Beran collection, Cambridge, UK (HB426); ex. Arthur Swinfield collection, before 1940
#6012

$2300