Museum Expedition 1941, Frank L. Babbott Fund

The kero cup form originates with the Inca. The original decorations included abstract geometric patterns. After the arrival of Europeans, the kero evolved to include pictorial scenes, a European convention, but its function remained the same. Kero cups were used to drink chichi (maize beer) in ritual ceremonies, for instance in the sealing of a deal or agreement.

Although the kero looks similar to a European or North American colonial beaker, the two forms developed independently. The similarity of both cups in form and function created a link between Spanish and native cultures, reflecting the role of things in building cultural connections.

Gift of Mrs. Eugene Schaefer

Gift of Dr. Werner Muensterberger

Gift of Ernest Erickson

Gift of George D. Pratt

Gift of Dr. John H. Finney

Light orange carved figure of an animal with its head pointed downward, a rectangular saddle-like structure in relief on the top back and an oval shaped tail. There is a triangular indentation on the top of the head. The body is rectangular in shape.

Green stone mace head consisting of a rounded semi-circular blade with an indented rectangular shaft with seven grooved lines running horizontal. There is a hole drilled at the end of the shaft. On the back of the mace is a white and red adhesive tag with SA 54 written on it.

Grey stone mace consisting of four projecting points around the circumference and a round hole in the centre which is convex in shape, flaring out at both openings. The stone is finished.