Quimbaya. <em>Poporo (Lime Container)</em>, 1–600 C.E. Tumbaga (gold and copper alloy), 8 x 4 1/8 in. (20.3 x 10.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Alfred W. Jenkins Fund, 35.507. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 35.507_female_SL1.jpg)

Poporo (Lime Container)

Artist:Quimbaya

Medium: Tumbaga (gold and copper alloy)

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:1–600 C.E.

Dimensions: 8 x 4 1/8 in. (20.3 x 10.5 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 35.507

Image: 35.507_female_SL1.jpg,female side

Catalogue Description:
Gold container or poporo used to hold powdered lime made from burnt seashells. The vessel is decorated with male and female figures on opposite sides to reflect the importance of duality in the Andean world. Powdered lime was placed in the mouth with coca leaves to activate the stimulant in the leaves. Condition: excellent.

Brooklyn Museum