Coconut Grater

About this object

History of use

The wooden seat provides a steady base for the blade, onto which coconuts are forced, broken, and reduced.

Cultural context

Food preparation.

Physical description

Two linked pieces of brown softwood. The major component is fitted into the secondary component. Each piece has a bend in the opposite direction which allows them to fit together in a flat or an open arrangement. A serrated-edged iron blade is fitted into an extension from the major component. When fitted together, the two pieces form a seat in the shape of an "x" (in profile), with the blade extending in the front. The edges are clean or beveled and suggest western-type tools, such as a saw and plane. Some pencil marks as guides for cuts are apparent.