Minneapolis Institute of Art

Vessel

Inca artist

Date

1300–1550

Medium

Wood, pigment

Culture

Inca

Department

Arts of the Americas

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Ancient Andeans of all classes used qeros for toasting with chicha , or maize beer, during feasts. Social drinking was central to Inka society. Inka rulers provided chicha as a gesture of generosity and reciprocity to the subjects whose labor and resources they commanded. Ritual drinking was also important in forming alliances with neighboring societies, and a conquered ruler’s refusal to drink was a costly mistake. Qeros were typically made in pairs as a reflection of Inka beliefs in duality and reciprocity; however subordinates often received a smaller vessel. Inca, Peru, Americas

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