Mongo Wood Spoon, Republic of Congo

Black-brown, smooth, boat-shaped. A spoon does not need to explain itself.

Spoons and ladles of this kind were used for serving and preparing food in the household, and their simple forms reflect long, everyday use. This one was made in the Republic of Congo in the 20th century, eighteen inches long, a generous size. The bowl is deep and boat-shaped, narrowing to a softly pointed tip. A short stout handle extends straight from one end.

The surface is dark, almost black, smoothed by handling, with faint tool marks and a touch of lighter wood showing at the rim. Stir something large.