Description:

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 900 to 500 BCE. A hand-carved andesite drug spoon of mottled green and gray hues with a lengthy handle and a rectangular preparation surface. A raised ridge along the longest side ensured that mitigated spillage of ingredients while being prepared, and a series of biconically drilled suspension holes along the handle and body suggest this was perhaps worn around one's neck for ceremonial or shamanic rituals. Psychoactive substances seem to have been used in ritual near-universally in ancient Mesoamerica, as the Spanish described upon their arrival. Items found through archaeological investigations attest to how important drug rituals were for religious ceremonies and healing. Size: 9.125" L x 3.625" W (23.2 cm x 9.2 cm); 4.3" H (10.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Cf. The Vilcek Foundation, accession numbers 2006.02.1 and 2006.17.1.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#175023

  • Condition: Chips to a few areas, with age-commensurate abrasions, and a couple of stable hairline fissures, otherwise in excellent condition. Lovely stone coloration and great surface smoothness.

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October 20, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
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Artemis Fine Arts

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