A Magnificent Quimbaya Gold Lime Container, poporo...

Description

A Magnificent Quimbaya Gold Lime Container, poporo
Colombia, circa 100-600 AD

Art historians suggest that these gold alloy (tumbaga) flasks were carried on the body by straps around the narrow midsection and contained lime made from burnt seashell. Placed in the mouth with coca leaves the powdered lime activates the stimulant in the leaves. There are gold and ceramic depictions of ancient Quimbaya priests and chieftains carrying such containers. This flask is expertly fashioned from gold alloy (tumbaga), it has a high gloss and sensual, satiny hand feel. The neck has a groove that would have secured a cord for carrying. It has a pleasing simplicity and symmetry. Gold threads around the neck at top may have been use to secure its cap, In excellent condition, only minor discolorations to the highly reflective surface.

Provenance:
A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1994
Economos Works of Art, Santa Fe, NM
Ken Klassen, Los Angeles, CA, 1970-1980s

Height: 6 ½ inches

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