MASSIM CLAPPER SPATULA
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
£175
African & Oceanic Art, Antiquities and Natural History
Auction: 5 May 2021 at 12:00 BST
Description
carved wood, with a central section of carved and incised detailing, the handle cut vertically into two sections to form a clapper
Dimensions
34cm long
Footnote
Note:
The "clapper type" example present here holds an interesting dual function. As well as their primary purpose in preparing betel nuts for consumption, clapper spatulas also act as musical instruments. The handles of these spatulas are cut vertically into two and the centre is hollowed out to form a sounding cavity. When shaken or struck against the hand it produces the characteristic "clap". Whilst in some mainland communities they are simply utilised to accompany singing and dance, on the Trobriand Islands clappers are reserved for chiefs to use to warn others of their approach. (Metropolitan Museum of Art 2017).
Provenance:
Private collection, United Kingdom