Pre-Columbian, southern Mexico/Guatemala, Olmec culture, ca. 1150 to 550 BCE. A stone spoon of grey-green hues and an interesting form. A long, rectangular trough is at the top, pierced through the back for suspension. A thin trough connects this to a round bowl at the bottom, which would hang down on the chest when worn during shamanic rituals. Psychoactive substances seem to have been used in ritual near-universally in ancient Mesoamerica, as recorded by the Spanish when they arrived. Items found through archaeological investigations attest to how important they were for ritual and healing. Size: 3.6" W x 2.1" H (9.1 cm x 5.3 cm); 3.45" H (8.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, Ex Butterfield collection formed in the 1980's

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#143632

Small losses from one side and upper edge as shown. Otherwise in nice condition with light scratching and chips commensurate with age.