Mongo Wood Spoon, Democratic Republic of Congo

Deep and narrow as a dugout, tipped up slightly at the bow.

This spoon is Mongo, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, dating to the 20th century, in wood. Carved serving spoons are among the most common household objects in the Congo basin, often large enough to dish out a meal for many. This one has a long, deep bowl with steep sides and a gently lifted, pointed tip. A short handle extends from the back end. The surface is a dark, even brown with a soft sheen. It is 6.25 inches wide, 3 deep and 21 high.

A spoon of considerable ambition.