Spoon c. 19th century

Curator: Here we have an object identified as a “Spoon”, originating from the Lozi people, and dating to around the 19th century. It's currently part of the collection here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: Oh, my! It feels so personal, doesn't it? Raw, like a forgotten lullaby. That little bird figure perched on the handle… it looks as if it's guarding secrets, perched right there between the bowl of nourishment and the steady hand. Curator: The simplicity of its form, particularly the integration of avian imagery with a commonplace tool, is quite striking. We see a distinct emphasis on the manipulation of wood, revealing tool marks that narrate the process of creation. Editor: True, you can see how it’s shaped – it looks very elemental. I mean, can't you imagine someone patiently carving this by the firelight? Makes me wonder about the stories this spoon could tell… Who ate from it? Was it part of some ritual? Curator: It prompts us to think about function meeting symbolism. The Lozi are known for their complex social structure and craftsmanship. The spoon’s very existence suggests daily life intertwined with deeper meanings. Editor: The grain of the wood alone tells a tale of resilience. Imagine scooping up life itself with it, with every meal connecting someone back to their roots, you know? Curator: And the subtle asymmetry only adds to its inherent interest as an example of ethnographic artistry. Editor: Right! It is imperfect, which makes it sing. Art doesn’t need to be polished. Thank you, little Lozi spoon, for reminding us about soul and sustenance. Curator: Yes, indeed. A compelling look into how ordinary objects carry immense cultural weight.