Lime Spatula

late 19th century

Culture

Melanesia

Locale

Trobriand Islands Melanesia

Country

Papua New Guinea

Object

spatula, lime

Medium

Wood

Accession Number

1949.4251

Credit Line

Native Arts acquisition funds

Melanesian artist, Lime Spatula, Late 19th century. Wood; 23 7/8 x 1 in. Denver Art Museum: Native Arts acquisition funds, 1949.4251

Dimensions

length: 23.875 in, 60.6425 cm; width: 1 in, 2.5400 cm

Department

Native Arts

Collection

Arts of Oceania

Lime spatulas are often used to bring lime made of burnt coral to the mouth, where it adds to a mix that also consists of betel nut and betel pepper leaves. The resulting mix is a mild stimulant commonly consumed throughout Oceania. Betel chewing is a social and personal habit, but betel is also chewed in ritual and ceremonial contexts.