A VERY FINE SEPIK LIME CONTAINER

Provenance Sammlung Markert, München.

The Iatmul and other Middle Sepik peoples use betel nut, the fruit of the areca palm, which is chewed with lime made from burnt shells or coral and other substances to produce a mild stimulant effect. Among the Iatmul, the ornate containers and spatulas used respectively to hold and serve the lime had ceremonial as well as practical functions. Ceremonial lime containers were presented to newly initiated boys by their maternal uncles to mark their newly achieved status.
Bamboo, bone and shell, natural pigments, End of 19th century

Middle Sepik area. Container 21 x 12 cm, Spatula 34 cm
Nice patina of use.

Price:  €  950,-