Imperial Mate Gourd Cup, Handmade Calabash With Chiseled Alpaca Silver, Alpaca Base, Embossed Snake-print Leather

A handcrafted imperial mate made from a natural calabash gourd, wrapped in embossed cowhide leather with a hand-tooled snake-print pattern, and finished with richly hand-tooled alpaca silver. Its substantial shape and traditional materials make it both a functional yerba mate cup and a distinctive Argentine artisan piece — a great gift for mate lovers or anyone who enjoys South American decor.

Key Features

• Natural calabash gourd interior
• Embossed cowhide leather exterior with a snake-print pattern (not exotic animal skin)
• Hand-tooled alpaca silver detailing
• Solid, substantial handcrafted construction
• Each piece has natural variations in shape, pattern and measurements

Materials

• Natural calabash gourd
• Embossed cowhide leather (snake-print pattern)
• Hand-tooled alpaca (German silver)

Dimensions

Approx. height: 10 cm / 3.94 in
Approx. width: 10 cm / 3.94 in
Approx. weight: 500 g / 1.1 lb

Because each mate is made from a natural gourd, dimensions, shape and weight may vary slightly from one piece to another.

Handmade in Argentina using traditional materials and artisan metalwork. Small variations and minor marks are part of its handmade character and make every piece unique.

Preparation and Use

Natural gourd mates should be cured before first use. Fill with yerba mate, insert the bombilla and add hot water that is not boiling.

Care Instructions

• Empty the used yerba after each use
• Rinse the gourd interior gently and allow it to air-dry completely
• Do not soak the mate or place it in a dishwasher
• Do not leave water standing inside for long periods
• Keep the leather and metal exterior dry; wipe gently with a soft cloth