Shaman Ritual, Artifact - Antique - Cucurbit-shaped Shamanic Potion Vase - Costa

Period: 800 - 1200 AD Origin: Costa Rica, Mesoamerica Provenance: Private collection, South of France This terracotta ritual vase, modeled in the shape of a cucurbit, is a typical example of ritual ceramics from pre-Columbian Costa Rica. Its shape evokes a squash or a calabash, plants associated with fertility, medicine and sacred beverages in Mesoamerican shamanic traditions. These containers were used during ritual ceremonies to contain psychotropic substances, consumed by priests and shamans in order to enter a trance and communicate with the spiritual world. Description: • Material: Terracotta, natural patina of use. • Shape: Globular vase reminiscent of a fruit or a calabash, with a reduced opening facilitating the storage of sacred liquids. • Decoration: Smooth and modeled surface without apparent decoration, favoring a refined form inspired by the natural world. • Base: Slightly rounded, with a small visible gap on the foot. Symbolism and use: A container for ritual substances In the indigenous cultures of pre-Columbian Costa Rica, these vessels were commonly used by shamans and priests in rituals intended to: • Enter a trance and communicate with ancestral spirits. • Predict the future or receive divine messages. • Cure illnesses through shamanic practices. The substances contained in these vessels were often derived from sacred psychotropic plants, including: • Wild tobacco (Nicotiana rustica): used in high doses to induce visions and purify the mind. • Ritual cacao (Theobroma cacao): consumed in ceremonies as a sacred elixir. • Datura (Brugmansia spp.): a powerful hallucinogen used by shamans to enter a deep trance state. • The Yopo (Anadenanthera peregrina): containing DMT, it was inhaled in powder form for intense shamanic experiences. This type of container, with its nature-inspired shape and specific use, bears witness to the importance of spiritual and medicinal practices in the pre-Columbian society of Costa Rica. Condition: Beautiful old patina, visible traces of use. Small lack on the foot, not affecting the stability of the piece. Dimensions: • Height: 6 cm Delivery: Fast and secure shipping via DHL Express, ensuring that this unique and characterful piece arrives in optimal conditions.