Lot 159
MASSIM BETEL NUT MORTAR AND PESTLE
TROBRIAND ISLANDS, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
African & Oceanic Art and Antiquities
Auction: 27 November 2018 at 11:00 GMT
£625
Description
carved wood, the mortar standing on a rounded base with intricate carvings of birds and geometric patterns, the pestle with an image of a tree kangaroo sitting atop
Dimensions
mortar 16.5cm tall
Footnote
Provenance:
Susan Kirk, Scotland, acquired in situ at Kwaibwaga, Kiriwina island in 1983.
Note:
This is a rare example of a betel nut mortar with such elaborate fine decoration. It offers clear signs of use, with a glossy patina on the base and lime residue within.