Dan Wood Anthropomorphic Spoon, Based

A spoon that stands up straight and looks you in the eye.

Dan carvers of Liberia, West Africa, made this anthropomorphic spoon in wood in the 20th century. Large ceremonial spoons are associated with Dan hospitality, and the wake gbe, or feast-giving woman, traditionally held one. The bowl is a long, smooth oval. A slim neck with a ring supports it, and below is a figure with bent legs and carefully carved feet. The wood has turned a deep brown, and the polished bowl is darker than the legs.

About fifteen inches tall on a small black stand. Generous in form, and quite formal in posture.