Spear Spoon

Norm Sartorius, Spear Spoon, 1997, African blackwood, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995--2003), 2003.60.51, © 1997, Norm Sartorius
Copied Norm Sartorius, Spear Spoon, 1997, African blackwood, 7820 782 12 in. (2.2536.4 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003), 2003.60.51, © 1997, Norm Sartorius

Artwork Details

Title
Spear Spoon
Date
1997
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
7820 782 12 in. (2.2536.4 cm)
Copyright
© 1997, Norm Sartorius
Credit Line
Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003)
Mediums
Mediums Description
African blackwood
Classifications
Object Number
2003.60.51

Artwork Description

Norm Sartorius uses the natural form of the wood to define each spoon's shape, and in this piece we can still see where another branch forked away from the handle. The narrow, pointed bowl and thin handle evoke a weapon, as if this spoon were designed to be thrown at an enemy rather than used for the simple tasks of cooking and eating. The contrasts between light and dark wood emphasize the piece's sleek form and simple design, while the ridges along the handle form a comfortable grip for the user.