Oct 5, 2011
Oct 5, 2011

Plaque with Figures

Plaque with Figures

900–1470

Hammered gold alloy

Overall: 10.7 x 12.3 cm (4 3/16 x 4 13/16 in.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1945.129

Location

Description

Frontal figures flanked by profile attendants have a long history in the Andes. This is the quintessential group of authority and power, here a Chimú lord and two creatures perhaps from mythology. Ancient Andean cultures did not use writing, so it is difficult to know more about the scene's meaning. Additional elements, probably also of gold, originally were tabbed through the slots on the surface.

See also
Collection: 
AA - Andes
Department: 
Art of the Americas
Type of artwork: 
Metalwork

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