Minneapolis Institute of Art

Qero (kero)

Inca artist

Date: 1300–1550
Medium: Wood, pigment
Culture: Inca
Department: Arts of the Americas
Institution: Minneapolis Institute of Art

The geometric symbols or tocapu encircling the top of this qero indicate it likely belonged to a high ranking member of society. This visual language of geometric emblems communicated information about rank and status. While much is yet to be learned about specific tocapu meanings, they have been found in tunics and objects belonging to elites in the Inka and Wari empires. Like other qeros, this one would have been used for chicha , or maize beer. Since qeros were designed for social drinking, artists placed the most important visual symbols in a place of prominence near the top, so they could be easily seen. Inca, Peru, Americas

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