Peru, north coast, Chimu culture
Breastplate
c. 1000­1470 A.D.
Hammered and repoussé gold
34.3 x 21.6 cm
Gift of the Antiquarian Society; Mrs. Harold T. Martin, and Mrs. H. Alex Vance funds, 1978.144

The powerful Chimu people of ancient Peru ruled over an extensive kingdom. Their rulers—kings, priests, or military officers—wore breastplates, headdresses, and other ornaments of gold for ritual ceremonies. When the sun shone on the golden regalia, onlookers were dazzled. This breastplate was found in a tomb, because rulers were buried with their most precious garments and jewelry.

Gold was plentiful in Peru. It is a very soft metal and easy to shape. This breastplate was probably made by hammering a sheet of gold over a wood form.