MASSIM LIME SPATULA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Harry Beran, Cambridge (inv. no. "HB 197")
Marcia and John Friede, New York, acquired from the above

Wollongong City Gallery, Wollongong, Art of the Massim Region of Papua New Guinea, October 15 - November 6, 1980

Harry Beran, Massim Tribal Art, Papua New Guinea, Wollongong, 1980, p. 17, no. 20

Very good condition for an object of this age and type. MInor hairline surface cracks running with the wood grain, parallel to the blade of the spatula. Small shallow chip to one side of tip handle (farthest from blade). Minor nicks, scratches, and abrasions throughout. Stone-carved surface. Fine dark brown patina. Small remnants of adhesive from a previous mounting on blade.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A Massim, Rossel Islands, Lime Spatula

This is probably the finest open-work Massim spatula in existence.  A comparison to a series of Rossel Islands spatulas of the canoe-end design makes it plausible that it is a version of this design and is from this island.  A feature of the present spatula is its blade which runs to the middle of the handle and then turns into a bird's head which reflects the bird's head at the end of the handle.  This spatula far exceeds all others of the canoe-end design and points to the exceptional talent of the artist who designed and carved it.

Harry Beran
Cambridge, April 2011