Miniature Drum
13th–15th century
Medium
Silver (hammered)
Dimensions
H. 5 × W. 3 1/4 × D. 2 1/8 in. (12.7 × 8.3 × 5.5 cm)
Classification
Metal-Ornaments
Culture
Chimú or Chancay
Department
Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Jane Costello Goldberg, from the Collection of Arnold I. Goldberg, 1986
Accession Number
1987.394.660
Art Historical Context
This exquisite **Miniature Drum**, crafted by Chimú or Chancay artist) between the 13th and 15th centuries, exemplifies the masterful metalworking of pre-Columb Andean cultures on Peru's coast. Belonging to either the Chimú, renowned for their expansive empire and intricate gold and silverwork, or the Chancay known for vibrant ceramics and textiles, this small silver object (just 5 inches tall) served likely as a ceremonial ornament rather than a functional instrument. Its classification as a metal ornament suggests it may have adorned rituals, elite attire, or shrines, reflecting the societie...