About this artwork
This panel includes figures that combine human and animal features, a theme frequently explored in art from throughout the ancient Andean region. The design consists of two groupings of abstract anthropomorphic beings (possibly deities) wearing ornate whiskered feline masks, headdresses, and ear ornaments. Appendages and heads radiate from the figures in all directions, which produces a design that can be read from various viewpoints. The multiple heads suggest otherworldly powers and may represent the heads of defeated, decapitated warriors, taken as trophies.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Textiles
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Culture
- Nasca
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Title
- Panel
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Place
- Peru (Object made in)
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Date
- Made 500 CE–600 CE
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Medium
- Cotton and wool (camelid), slit tapestry weave with outlining wefts
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Dimensions
- 67 × 45.1 cm (26 3/8 × 17 3/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Kate S. Buckingham Endowment
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Reference Number
- 1955.1723
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/85375/manifest.json