Cup with Repoussé Figure Possibly 1100 - 1470

This cup with Repoussé figure was made by an artist from the Chimú culture, a civilization that developed on the coast of what is now Peru, centuries ago. Consider the hands that shaped this vessel, likely part of a community with sophisticated metalworking traditions. The cup provides insights into the Chimú’s complex social hierarchy, as metal objects like this were symbols of power and status. What narratives are woven into this object? How does it uphold, or subvert, the cultural norms of the time? The repoussé figure is a powerful reminder of the Chimú’s spiritual beliefs. The cup is not just a utilitarian object but a symbol laden with meaning. It is a testament to a culture’s values and beliefs that have shaped life experiences.