The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of December 13, 2025

Ear Flare

900–1470

Peru, North Coast, Chimú style

(900-1470)
hammered gold alloy
Diameter: 8 cm (3 1/8 in.); Overall: 9.9 cm (3 7/8 in.)
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1947.180.2
Location: Not on view

Description

North Coast ear ornaments typically have a long shaft that balanced the weight of the glorious frontal. This pair illustrates Chimú interest in the sea, which had great economic and religious importance. On the shafts are bands of seabirds and waves, and a similar pattern edges the frontals, which were altered in modern times. Originally solid disks, the frontals' centers were cut out and a dotted band was added to the rim.
  • Cleveland, OH: The Cleveland Museum of Art; February 23-April 3, 1966. "Treasures of Peruvian Gold."
    Dallas, TX: Neiman-Marcus Co.; October 19-31, 1959. "South American Fortnight."
  • {{cite web|title=Ear Flare|url=false|author=|year=900–1470|access-date=13 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1947.180.2