Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona, ca. 1000 to 1500 CE. A lovely hand-held drug implement carved from a mottled red stone with white inclusions known as brecciated jasper. The spoon has a large receptacle at one end for grinding lime powder to mix with coca leaves to permit the narcotic substance easier access to the bloodstream. A small knob-shaped grip projects from behind the receptacle and enables the user to better grasp and control the spoon. This tool has a spiralized body similar in form to an elongated spire mollusk shell. Size: 5.125" L x 1.25" W (13 cm x 3.2 cm).

According to the Tairona Heritage Trust, "The word 'coca' derives from an Aymara word that means simply 'tree'. Prior to the Conquest, Indians used various names for the several varieties of cultivated Erythroxylum. The Spanish took the name 'coca' from the southern reaches of the Incan empire and bought it into use throughout their domain . . . Coca chewing suffused South American life and the stimulant properties of its leaves have been known from at least the Nazca period (around 500 CE). 'We know this because of the discovery of the mummified remains of a Peruvian potentate of this era accompanied by several bags of coca leaves. In addition, pottery of this period frequently depicts coca chewers with their characteristic distended cheeks.' (Mann J.)" (http://tairona.myzen.co.uk/index.php/culture/the_use_of_coca_in_south_america)

Provenance: private Del Mar, California, USA collection

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#135362

Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and use, very minor nicks to handle, receptacle, body, and grip, with some light roughness within receptacle, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits throughout.