Native American, Pacific Northwest Coast, United States or Canada, Tlingit or Haida people, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A remarkable ceremonial bighorn sheep horn or marine mammal bone spoon with a totemic handle inlaid with nacre shells. The curved ladle has a thick and deep bowl made of a separate piece from the handle. The handle contains 2 stacked totemic beings- an anthropomorphic head inlaid with nacre eyes, and a raven or owl crouching on top with nacre on the wings, tail, and eyes. These ornate spoons were used during potlatches and feasts to display the family's wealth through the fine craftsmanship and the number of spoons they owed. Size: 9.125" L x 1.75" W (23.2 cm x 4.4 cm)
Provenance: private Brevard, North Carolina, USA collection
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#171002
Condition
Minor nicks to ladle bowl and handle, otherwise intact and excellent. Some natural patina and striations and mineral deposits in recessed areas.