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Snuff Spoon / Comb, late 1800s (bone)
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Snuff Spoon / Comb, late 1800s (bone)
500437 Snuff Spoon/Comb, late 1800s (bone) by Zulu, (19th century); h:15.24 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Often, snuff spoons made from the rib of an ox or cow were subtly carved to suggest a female body. Decorated with incised designs blackened with cattle fat and ash, many are true hybrid objects, combining a spoon with a long-tined comb or hairpin. Such spoons were typically worn as ornaments in the hair or even the beard, thus signaling the social standing of their wearer. [Constantine Petridis Cleveland Museum of Art, (4/16/11-2/26/12); " The Art of Daily Life: Portable Objects from Southeast Africa" ]
); Gift of Dori and Daniel Rootenberg, Jacaranda Tribal, New York; South African, out of copyright
Media ID 22405324
© Gift of Dori and Daniel Rootenberg, Jacaranda Tribal, New York / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a Snuff Spoon/Comb from the late 1800s, crafted by the Zulu people of South Africa. Measuring at a height of 15.24 cm, this bone-made artifact is currently housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA. What makes this snuff spoon truly remarkable is its intricate design and cultural significance. Often made from ox or cow ribs, these spoons were delicately carved to resemble female bodies. Adorned with incised patterns that were darkened using cattle fat and ash, they served as hybrid objects combining both a spoon and a long-tined comb or hairpin. These unique spoons were not simply functional items but also symbols of social status. They were worn as ornaments in the hair or even in beards, allowing their wearers to showcase their elevated position within society. The photograph captures every detail of this extraordinary piece, highlighting its craftsmanship and historical value. It serves as a testament to the rich artistic traditions of Southeast Africa and offers viewers an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and cultural significance behind everyday objects. Displayed alongside other portable artifacts from Southeast Africa during an exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art titled "The Art of Daily Life: Portable Objects from Southeast Africa" this snuff spoon/comb stands as a testament to African artistry and creativity throughout history.
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