Artwork Page for Spatula with Carved Head

Details / Information for Spatula with Carved Head

Spatula with Carved Head

500–900

Peru, Wari style

(500-900)
Medium
bone with shell inlay
Measurements
Overall: 11.2 x 2.6 cm (4 7/16 x 1 in.)
Credit Line
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Humphreys, gift of their daughter Helen 1955.57
Public Domain
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Location
232 Andean
Print

Description

Peruvian Indians today regard coca leaf as a sacred substance that creates communion with supernatural forces. The leaves are chewed with powdered lime that in antiquity was stored in containers and scooped with spatulas like those seen here. Aside from its ritual meaning, coca has practical benefits: it is vitamin-rich; like coffee, it induces clear-headedness; and it increases stamina. The lizard spatula is Nasca in style; the other is Wari.

Spatula with Carved Head

500–900

Peru, Wari style (500-900)

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