Ear Spool
Culture Group
Chimú
Date1000–1534
MediumGold
Dimensions1 1/2 x 1 inches (3.8 x 2.5 cm)
1 11/16 inches (4.3 cm)
1 11/16 inches (4.3 cm)
Classifications(not assigned)
Credit LineThe Paul A. and Virginia Clifford Collection
Object number1973.1.558.2
Collections
- ART OF THE AMERICAS
Label TextAncient Peruvian aristocrats wore large circular ornaments in their pierced earlobes as a badge of nobility, status, and wealth. For this reason, the Spaniards called the native nobility of ancient Peru orejones or "big ears." The practice of enlarging the earlobes was also customary in other parts of Ancient America; the Aztecs and Maya lords also wore ear spools as a sign of rank.
The ear spools could be made of wood, gold, or silver, and often included precious stones, feathers, and shells. Some measured as large as three inches in diameter, and could stretch the earlobe significantly. Some were a single ring-shaped piece, while others were made in two parts that were put through both sides of the ear and connected in the center.
The ear spools could be made of wood, gold, or silver, and often included precious stones, feathers, and shells. Some measured as large as three inches in diameter, and could stretch the earlobe significantly. Some were a single ring-shaped piece, while others were made in two parts that were put through both sides of the ear and connected in the center.
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