ITEM 12820
Betel Nut Chopper, Handle in form of Crocodile Head
Lombok or Bali
19th / early 20th century
Horn, iron, bone inlay
8.5 in / 21.5 cm
(handle only 4.7 in / 12 cm)
$8,000
Ex Collection Laurence A. G. Moss, purchased: Bali (1980)
Exhibited: Art of the Lesser Sunda Islands: A Cultural Resource At Risk, San Francisco Craft and Folk Art Museum, San Francisco, June-Aug., 1986; Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, Aug.-Sept., 1986 (no. 2). Photo published in: Moss, Laurence A. G., Art of the Lesser Sunda Islands: A Cultural Resource At Risk, 1986 (fig. 2.).
A superb “capture” of the Buaya crocodile spirit, featuring bone inlays that bring emphasis to the apex predator’s intelligent gaze and tough reptilian skin.
A totem animal better to honor as a friend.
