(used with permission, photo courtesy Afrahouse African Art*)
The central focus of Caty Latham’s Hermès carré, Cuillers D’Afrique Spoons of Africa, is exactly what the name suggests: a tribute to the diverse and highly artistic spoons of the African continent. It is fitting that this intricate design was a highlight of Hermès’ 1997 annual theme, L’Année de l’Afrique (The Year of Africa).
In many Western cultures, a spoon is merely a daily utensil. However, the spoons featured in Latham’s design are far from ordinary. Across Africa, various cultures maintain to this day a profound tradition of ornately carved wooden spoons and ladles that transcend their utilitarian purpose, serving instead as potent symbols of status, prestige, and spiritual power.
(used with permission, photo courtesy Afrahouse African Art*)
These spoons often played a role in significant communal events, including ceremonies, funerals, and sacrifices. A notable example represented in the scarf is the Wunkirmian or Wakemia feasting spoon (often shown with two legs or feet). This ceremonial ladle, which can be as large as two feet, is masterfully carved by artists within the Dan communities of Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire. Far beyond serving food, the spoon acts as a badge of honor and prestige. It signals that its female owner—known as the wunkirle—is the most generous and hospitable woman in her community, a true bearer of communal respect and spiritual blessing. Crucially, this significance remains true today: the Wunkirmian is not a mere trophy but a powerful heirloom, passed down through generations to recognize and affirm the vital role of women in sustaining the community.
I would like to thank Afrahouse Art Gallery for their generous contribution. Afrahouse is a private African art gallery that specializes in authentic traditional and contemporary African art. Based in London, UK.