Coca Bag Item Number: 3486/58 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Coca leaf bag (chuspa) that has a carrying strap made of two braids, tubular edgings (ribetes) covering seams and edges, and short tassels along the lower edge. Two design panels on each face have geometric figures and birds.
Different types of Andean bags (bolsas, generic term, Spanish) have different names and characteristics. Square or rectangular bags used by men to carry coca leaves are called “chuspa”. Some of these have small pockets woven into one face for carrying the llipt’a (lime-ash substance that releases the alkaloids when chewed with the leaves). Some have straps and are worn around the waist or shoulder.
The two panels are woven in warp-faced double cloth.
Purchased by donor in Sucre in 1983, at the shop of Elizabeth Rojas.