Spoon
D. R. Congo, Lega
not available anymore
Size
H: 18,5 cm
H: 7.3 inch
Description
ivory, partly dark patinated, min. dam., slight traces of usage;
ivory spoons seem to emphasize continuity, perhaps through reference to feeding and growth. Older men who are high-level members of “bwami” eat with an ivory spoon, reminding those watching of their status and value to the community. Spoons are also used in circumcision rites. Men place an ivory spoon in the mouth of a young boy for him to bite on during his circumcision.