Incised Container for Lime with Monkey Stopper Possibly 1000 - 1470

This incised container for lime, with monkey stopper, was created by an artist from the Ica culture. The container itself is likely made from a gourd, carefully hollowed and dried. The surface is decorated with incised lines, creating a complex pattern that speaks to a rich visual culture. The monkey stopper, carved from bone or ivory, adds a playful touch while also serving a practical purpose. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, this object speaks to the importance of lime in Ica society. Lime was a crucial ingredient in the practice of coca chewing, a stimulant used for medicinal, social, and ritual purposes. The creation of this container involved skilled craftsmanship, from the cultivation of the gourd to the intricate carving of the stopper. Considering materials, making, and context allows us to understand this artwork as more than just a container. It’s a window into the daily life, rituals, and artistic traditions of the Ica people.