SOLD Antique Animal Shaped Wood Coconut Cutter, Thailand (3450ZSE) $395

Description

Antique hand-crafted kitchen-accessories and tools and other objects such as coconut cutters are examples of the artistic skills of Thai carvers to transform functional and utilitarian objects into attractive decorative pieces. Coconuts are ubiquitous in Thailand, used for all aspects of Thai life: coconut milk and meat are staples in traditional Thai dishes and are used in religious offerings, its shell is made into ladles and other tools and its oil is used for baking and cooking as well as hair and skin products. These cutters were used in homes and for large fruits and vegetables sold in street markets where customers could also purchase the coconut, its milk, or grated pieces. Carved from a single piece of teak, this multi-use creation called a khood maprow was designed to cut, grate, shave, husk and shred coconuts and large fruits and vegetables. Some were carved in the shape of crouching rabbits, but others like this represent other small mammals. Once common in Thai kitchens, antique wood carvings like coconut cutters are now rare and sought as collectible folk-art as a unique kitchen accessories. It is in very good condition with an old rough but pleasing surface from constant use.