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Data
Data Source

This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Silver-coloured straight pin with a tapering shaft. The pin has an oval finial that is narrower at the top than at the base. A piece of round, green, translucent stone or glass(?) has been set in the middle of the finial. There is an incised scallop design around the edge, with small incised circles between each scallop. A leaf shape comprised of small incised circles surrounds the green stone, and a series of dots and lines fills in the space between the leaf shape and the stone.

History Of Use

A tupu is a pin that was used by women in several Central and South American countries to secure wrapped dresses and shawls. They were often considered family heirlooms and passed down from mother to daughter. Tupus were worn with traditional wool clothing, but they are not normally used with clothing made from synthetic materials.