Lime Spatula - Aire Massim, South East Of Papua New Guinea - 19th Century

Lime spatula
Massim area, South East Papua New Guinea
19th century 
Wood and lime highlights
H. 35.5 ; W 3 ; D 0.2 cm 

Wooden spatula with an asymmetrically cut rectangular handle with an openwork centre. The decoration is incised and highlighted with lime. Two zoomorphic figures with long beaks seem to be moving in this space. The smaller one with its beak upwards. 
This same design is repeated on the reverse. This side of the spatula is less ornate. There is only a central register incised and perforated with an S.

This utilitarian object refers to a common practice among the Melanesians: the chewing of lime. 
Lime is obtained by burning shells and coral. Its composition is therefore white and powdery. Spatulas were used as utensils for taking, dosing and placing the preparation on the betel leaves.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON