ceremonial ladle spoon wunkirmian or wakemia

ceremonial ladle spoon, known as a wunkirmian or wakemia, from the Dan communities of Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire. It is a symbol of status and spiritual power. The spoon is a badge of prestige, acknowledging a woman's generosity. It belongs to the wunkirle, the most hospitable woman in a village quarter. The handles often feature Dan characteristics, such as ornate headdresses and slender eyes. It is used during festive ceremonies to serve meals, and the owner waves it during dances. These spoons are sometimes kept hidden and revealed only during important occasions.