Spatula c. 20th century

natural stone pattern

3d sculpting

circular oval feature

egg art

sculpture

sculptural image

circular shape

stoneware

ceramic

round circular shape

This anonymous "Spatula" from the 20th century is carved from a single piece of wood and is part of a larger collection of similar implements from the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The artwork's carved design features intricate patterns and an elongated handle that is typical of this type of object. The rich brown hue of the wood further adds to the visual appeal of this small and carefully crafted object.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Betel chewing is a common practice throughout India, Indonesia, and Oceania. Frequently called betel nut, a "chew" actually consists of three components; a paste made from the crushed kernel of an areca palm nut, the fruit or leaf of the betel-pepper plant, and a quantity of powdered lime, obtained from burnt coral or shell. Often this combination takes the form of a small bite-sized package which is placed in the cheek and chewed in a manner similar to chewing tobacco. Betel chewing is a social and personal habit, but betel is also chewed in ritual and ceremonial contexts. The use of betel in Oceania has led to the manufacture of finely decorated paraphernalia including lime containers, lime spatulas, and mortars. These objects have been considered among the finest of Melanesian carvings.