Chisel Item Number: Sf524 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Two long chisel heads with rounded ends, one wider than the other, attached at the centre with an oblong rattle. The rattle has four lengthwise bands, each decorated with several birds in relief with back turned heads. The four bands flank two lengthwise slits in the rattle through which three metal balls can be seen. The surface is brassy with a brown metal underneath.
History Of Use
Appears to be primarily a tool for cutting or prying. The presence of the rattle suggests it may be a ceremonial instrument. The bands of bird designs are reminiscent of the adobe friezes on the quadrangles of the Chimu capital of Chanchan.
Narrative
Chimu style, Late Intermediate Period; 1000-1400 C.E.
Iconographic Meaning
The design appears to be shore-birds. Fish, birds and other maritime themes are frequent in Chimu art.
Item History
What
- Name
- Chisel
- Identification Number
- Sf524
- Type of Item
- chisel
- Material
- bronze metal ?
- Manufacturing Technique
- cast and gilded
- Overall
- height 17.5 cm, diameter 2.8 cm
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Peru
When
- Creation Date
- between 1000 and 1400
- Collection Date
- between 1949 and 1966
- Ownership Date
- before May 4, 1981
- Acquisition Date
- on May 4, 1981
Other
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0711/0027