AN INDONESIAN HINGED SPHERICAL GOLD FILIGREE CONTAINER FOR A 'PEDRO DE PORCO' (PIG'S STOMACH STONE)

 

Sumatra, Palembang, 18th/19th century

 

Gold filigree bowl with a twig and three leaves on top attached to a gold chain and a stylized flower on the underside

 

H. 4.3 cm (container)

Diam. 3.3 cm (container

Note:

The “Pedro de Porco” has the same function as the better-known bezoar stone, the goat’s, horse or camel’s stomach stone, which traditionally is supposed to be an antidote against all poison. A drinking glass containing a bezoar stone or “Pedro de Porco” was supposed to neutralize any poison poured into it.