Kero
- Culture
- Inka
- Period
- Colonial period, 1532–1826
- Date
- 1532–1826
- Material
- Wood with pigment
- made in
- Peru, South America
- Classification
- Containers, wood
- Collection
- Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
- Current Location
- On View, Gallery 111
- Dimensions
- height: 6 9/16 in. (16.6 cm)
base, diameter: 4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm)
rim, diameter: 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm) - Credit Line
- Gift of J. Lionberger Davis
- Rights
- Public Domain
- Object Number
- 123:1954
NOTES
Containing complex iconography, this keros, or wooden cup, was a crucial element in Inka ceremonies and feasts. Keros were made in pairs for the ritual exchange of chicha, a fermented beverage made from corn. Early cups were incised with abstract geometric designs unrelated to any objects or beings. Following the Spanish conquest, inlaid resinous pigment decorated the keros with colorful pictorial scenes narrating Andean memory. These vessels continue to be produced in and used by Andean communities today.
The motif on this kero represents a warrior with battle gear.
The motif on this kero represents a warrior with battle gear.
We regularly update records, which may be incomplete. If you have additional information, please contact us at provenance@slam.org.