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Massim Spatula Terminal Papua New Guinea

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Indonesian Lime Spatula

This wonderful lime spatula is from 2nd century BC Java, Indonesia. Lime spatulas such as this one were used in the process of betel chewing, which is a common practice throughout Indonesia, as well as India and Oceania.⁠⁠

A betel nut 'chew' is made from three ingredients; crushed kernel of an areca palm nut, the fruit of the betel-pepper plant and powdered lime. The combination is wrapped in a small, bite-sized packet and is placed in the cheek to be chewed, in a similar fashion to chewing tobacco.⁠⁠

While betel chewing is a regular habit for many, it is also used in ritual or ceremonial contexts. Over time, the objects used to prepare a chew became more and more elaborately decorated, sometimes taking on anthropomorphic *ahem* characteristics.⁠

This object is a definite favourite amongst our visitors and staff. What is your favourite Ashmolean object?

[Lime spatula, bronze, 2nd century BC. Lumajang, Indonesia]