Special Exhibitions
Met Logo
Home
Special Exhibitions
Bullet Current Exhibitions
Bullet Upcoming Exhibitions
Bullet Past Exhibitions
Bullet Traveling Exhibitions
Printing Instructions

Rain of the Moon: Silver in Ancient Peru

Back to main page for this exhibition
Back to images from this exhibition
Enlarge Warrior plaque, 7th–10th century; Wari
Silver; 10 1/4 x 7 3/8 in. (26 x 18.7 cm)
The Glassell Collection

arrow Description

Description

This rare plaque is in the form of a broad-shouldered warrior holding a spear thrower in his right hand and an oblong shield with stylized repoussé faces in his left. His flat body is covered with a long tunic featuring an interlocked hook design and a double belt with a diamond pattern. The eyes probably were once inlaid, perhaps with shell and semiprecious stone. The head is crowned by a four-cornered hat with a diamond and stepped-triangle pattern. It is not known how this handsome object functioned in ancient times; two perforations at the top of the hat suggest that it was attached to a backing.
Next




Home | Works of Art | Curatorial Departments | Collection Database | Features | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | Explore & Learn | The Met Store | Membership | Ways to Give | Plan Your Visit | Calendar | The Cloisters | Concerts & Lectures | Study & Research | Events & Programs | FAQs | Special Exhibitions | My Met Museum | Press Room | Met Podcast | Met Share | Site Index | Now at the Met | MuseumKids

Photograph Credits

Copyright © 2000–2009 The Metropolitan Museum of Art. All rights reserved.  Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy.
spacer