Southeast Asia, Thailand, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A special hand-carved wooden coconut grater in the form of a turtle, with a serrated iron plate protruding from the mouth. The turtle is comprised of a round and flat back that is supported by two rectangular panels. The top/ turtle shell is carved with floral motifs, and the legs have similar foliate patterns as well as a stylized dragon face on the front. The lower jaw of the turtle is elongated to support the grater plate. While it may seem like this an overly ornate and large attachment for a simple tool, Thai graters were traditionally attached to benches or stools, so the person could sit and drag the coconut over the iron grater. This grater is cleverly shaped like both a turtle and stool to let the person sit astride the turtle's back, and a bowl could be placed below the mouth to catch the shredded coconut. The wood has developed a smooth and lustrous patina from age and culinary use! Size: 19.25" L x 9.5" W x 7.75" H (48.9 cm x 24.1 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-De Roche collection, Piedmont, California, USA, acquired in 1970

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#146798

Old, inactive insect holes. Stable fissures. Back leg slightly loose. Felt pads added to legs for support. Nice smooth patina!