Massim Lime Spatula

Ebony lime spatula (aka limestick), from the Massim region of the Indo-Pacific. This area extends from Milne Bay on easternmost tip of mainland New Guinea, through a ring of widely-spaced islands, including the Trobriand, D'Entrecasteaux, and Woodlark islands. The people of this area share a broadly common culture. "Massim" refers specifically to their art style, which is characterized by elaborate, curvilinear, low-relief decorations, usually highlighted with white lime.

The seafaring people of Massim were made famous in the West by pioneering anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowski. In his seminal 1922 book, Argonauts of the Western Pacific, Malinowski described the "Kula Ring," a complicated trade system which included the ceremonial exchange of gifts around the island ring, progressing constantly in opposite directions.

Spatulas like this one were used to dip lime when chewing betel nut. However, lime spatulas were not solely utilitarian. Some were spiritual guardians, while others denoted status, and were reserved for chiefs and shamans. Since these items were very personal, their designs are incredibly varied. The motif seen on this example is likely a seabird, re-imagined in an abstract, "cubist" manner.

8.5” long x 1.25” wide. Some loss to tip resulting from use. Photo by Bronislaw Malinowski of Trobiand Islanders using betel. Note lime spatula held by the man in the center.