Lot: 197

76th tribal art auction

Big ceremonial spoon "wa ke mia"

Côte d'Ivoire, Dan

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
German Private Collection L: 26 inch 1500 EUR
plus 27 % commission, VAT, transport and insurance

wood, dark brown patina, crowned by an anthropomorphic head, aluminium teeth, metal coating of the eyes missing, slightly dam. (rim of the spoon), abrasion of paint, small traces of insect caused damage;
part of the belongings of a "wunkirle", a married highly esteemed woman of the village. The big spoons are signs of dignity, they were exclusively used for the ritual carrying of rice. The "wunkirle" had to prepare meals for feasts in the circumcision camps as well as on great days and for every visitor of the village. In order to meet this demand she needs a helping spirit, which is manifested in the big spoon "wa ke mia".