Inca Hunchback Miniature Figurine
Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Inca Hunchback Figurine
Highly deformed nude hunchback figurine in Bronze. His facial features are remarkable—expressive and detailed Capacocha offering. Hunchbacks were seen as an emissary between the Inca people and divinity and deposited as an offering.
The Inca civilization had an intriguing outlook on physical deformities, including hunchbacks, which were sometimes regarded as having spiritual significance. Despite valuing physical perfection, Inca society associated individuals with deformities with supernatural qualities or spiritual gifts. As a result, these individuals often held unique roles in religious ceremonies or rituals, with their participation varying depending on the circumstances—a scarce piece.
The Inca civilization utilized the lost wax casting method for crafting miniature figurines. They would create a wax model, encase it in clay, and then heat it to melt it, leaving a mold. Molten metal was poured into the mold to create the figurine. This intricate technique allowed for detailed and unique designs in their craftsmanship.
Ca. 1400 AD. Height is over 2″/5.08 cm. 5”/12.7 cm on a wood stand. The condition is excellent.
Provenance: Private Florida Collection
Price $1,495
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases