Description:

Pre-Columbian, Chile, San Pedro de Atacama, Tiahuanaco (Tiwanaku), ca. 400 to 1100 CE. A hand-carved wooden tray or palette, featuring a rectangular depression used for the preparation of hallucinogenic substances, and a finely carved handle in the form of two anthropomorphic figures. These figures have deeply excavated eyes, triangular chins, and raised topknots; relief carving on their chests resemble hands pressed together over their hearts. The use of psychotropic substances was common in Pre-Columbian societies. Shamans used hallucinogenic cacti, plants, and mushrooms in order to induce altered states of consciousness during religious ceremonies and healing rituals - a tradition which modern-day shamans continue. Size: 1.95" W x 6.2" H (5 cm x 15.7 cm); 6.9" H (17.5 cm) on included custom stand.

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

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#148452

  • Condition: Hairline fissures from weathering and age. None of these are repaired or threatening the stability of the tray. Really nice, rich patina with light deposits.

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September 5, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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