Wide-Blade Knifew with Reclining Animal on Top Possibly 1440 - 1540

This small bronze knife, created by Inca artisans sometime between 1440 and 1540, is a fascinating example of pre-Columbian American metalwork. The blade is wide and flat, topped with a stylized animal figure, likely a llama, which was a significant animal in Inca culture. This object, now in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago, speaks to the skill and artistry of the Inca, showcasing their ability to manipulate bronze into intricate shapes. The small size suggests it may have served a ceremonial purpose or been a personal tool.