Fante Spoon with Figurative Handle

A raised finger on a spoon. Instruction is built in.

Fante carvers of Ghana, West Africa, made this spoon in wood in the 20th century. Carved spoons in Akan-speaking regions are commonly decorated with figures, often tied to proverbs or to standing in the household. The handle here is a forearm ending in a clenched fist with one finger lifted. The bowl is a long, deep oval with a smooth black surface, and faint scratches inside catch the light. A slim metal mount holds it upright.

About 15 inches tall. Points at nothing in particular and gets away with it.