Pestle Item Number: Sf636 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Black, cylindrical stone with a gradual taper towards one end and a raised spiral that winds around the length of the stone. One end of the spiral is pointed and the other is bulbous with a flat top.

History Of Use

Both ends appear to have been used as striking surfaces, perhaps as hammer or anvil.

Iconographic Meaning

The spiral is in the form of a serpent with tapered tail and bulbous head.

Narrative

Pre-Conquest, before 1532 C.E.

Item History

  • Made in Peru before 1532
  • Collected between 1949 and 1966
  • Owned by Anonymous before May 4, 1981
  • Received from Anonymous (Donor) on May 4, 1981

What

Name
Pestle
Identification Number
Sf636
Type of Item
pestle
Material
stone
Manufacturing Technique
pecked and polished
Overall
height 11.1 cm, diameter 4.7 cm

Who

Culture
Andes
Previous Owner
Anonymous
Received from
Anonymous (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Peru

When

Creation Date
before 1532
Collection Date
between 1949 and 1966
Ownership Date
before May 4, 1981
Acquisition Date
on May 4, 1981

Other

Condition
good
Accession Number
0711/0138