Miniature Bowl Possibly 1200 - 1450

This small, unadorned gold bowl is an example of Inca metalworking, dating from sometime between 1200 and 1450. The bowl's simple, elegant form is typical of Inca craftsmanship, and its lustrous surface reflects the skill of the artisans who created it. The bowl is a testament to the Inca’s mastery of metalwork, which they used to create a variety of objects for both practical and ceremonial purposes. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this bowl and the understated brilliance of its form is a reflection of the Inca culture's focus on practicality and artistry.