Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Paracas or Proto-Nazca culture, ca. 500 to 100 BCE. A carved wood spoon with a stepped design on its handle that resembles the steps of a pyramid. The bowl is large and oval, designed for use in the preparation and ingestion of hallucinogenic drugs for ritual purposes by shamans. The step form may have been designed to resemble the pyramid at Cahuachi, a major ceremonial center for the Nazca - a monumental place not of residence, but of pilgrimage. The connection between drug use and religion was strong in this culture. Size: 5" W x 2" H (12.7 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Westermann collection, Germany

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#123840

  • Condition: Rich patina from age and handling. Small chips, nicks, and scratches commensurate with age, but form is very nicely preserved, with some deposits.

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October 31, 2019 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000