Manioc Squeezer

Manioc Squeezer

Plaited manioc squeezer with loop at both ends - probably worn on a belt. Material is possibly bamboo. Geometrical design in black.
  • Object: Manioc Squeezer
  • Artist: Unknown
  • Circa: 20th Century
  • Dimensions: 26" long 1 1/4" diameter
  • Culture Area: South America / Amazonia
  • Cultural Group: Unspecified
  • Cultural Context: Amazonian people typically soak grated bitter manioc in water to leach out the bitter poison. The wet manioc is then placed in the basketry squeezer for pressing out the poison-containing water. The remaining manioc pulp may cooked or may be dried and pounded into flour.
  • Donor: Dianne Kagan Smith
  • Catalog #: 86.217