Lime-spatula
Production date
Pre 1990
Country
Papua New Guinea
State/Province
Milne Bay
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Object detail
Description
Lime-spatula made from palm wood. Human figure with incised curvilinear designs on handle. Traces of lime mixed with saliva on spatula blade indicate that this object was used.
Classification
INDIGENOUS CULTURES Melanesian & South Sea Islander lime spatula
Production date
Pre 1990
Production place
Measurements
L 240 x W 18 mm
Media/Materials description
Palm wood
History and use
Betel-nut chewing is a traditional practice performed throughout Papua New Guinea. Betel-nut (from the seed of the areca palm) is chewed alongside mineral lime – usually made from burnt shell, coral, or other materials – and used as a mild stimulant to cause narcotic effect. Lime-spatulas such as this are used to serve the lime.
This object was collected by donor Peter Watt in 1990 and donated to the Museum of Tropical Queensland in 2012.
This object was collected by donor Peter Watt in 1990 and donated to the Museum of Tropical Queensland in 2012.
Associated person
Registration number
E40832
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