TWO MASSIM CEREMONIAL SPATULAS, GABAELA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, MILNE BAY PROVINCE, LOUISIADE ARCHIPELAGO

Turtle shell, shell money, fibre binding, fishing line, seeds, trade beads and white pigment

There is a small break in the turtle shell just to the left of the shaft (repaired) and a small nick to one side of the shell handle, the other appears to have lost shell attachments and has had a small section of the turtle shell broken from the lower left hand side.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cf. Beran, H., Betel Chewing Equipment of East New Guinea, Shire Publications Ltd., Aylesbury, UK, 1988, p.43, pl.56, for a similar example.