Study Notes for Chapter 42

Chapter 42 Study Notes on Inka Art and Civilization

Inka Drinking Vessels

  • Significance: This Inka work has been interpreted as part of a long tradition of Andean drinking vessels.

    • Differences from Earlier Inka Vessels:

      • The imagery in this vessel includes both figures and geometric motifs, which differentiates it from earlier styles.

Key Terminology

  1. Kero: An Andean decorated drinking cup traditionally used in feasts.

  2. Warp: Refers to stationary vertical threads that are held taut to the loom, serving as the base for weaving.

  3. Tinkuy: Describes a location where two important forces meet.

  4. Camay: A general life force that is believed to be found in all living entities.

  5. Huaca: Spaces or places that exhibit a concentration of camay, typically regarded as sacred or significant.

Unique Stylistic Elements

  • Naturalistic Detailing: This work of Inka art uniquely incorporates naturalistic detailing when appropriate, which is not common in most traditional Inka art forms.

Historical Context

  • Chimú Empire: The Inka indicated they inherited artists from this rival empire upon conquering it in 1460.

Duration of Inka Rule

  • Inka Empire Duration: The Inka Empire ruled for 125 years before the arrival of the Spanish.

Architectural Techniques

  • Masonry Techniques:

    • The Inka walls are notorious for their stones fitting together so perfectly that they do not require mortar, showcasing a technique known as dry masonry.

    • Construction Method:

      • Courses: The stonemasons arranged stones side by side to form a course.

      • Abrasion: The tops of the stones were prepared through abrasion to form a level surface for the subsequent stones.

Textile Production

  • Inka Tunics:

    • The tunic or shirt was crafted by Inka weavers, likely intended for the ruler.

      • Production Method: It was woven as a single long rectangular piece of cloth, which was later sewn at the sides.

      • Motifs: These motifs are typically found in square frames known as tocapu.

      • Cultural Belief: It is believed these motifs were created by one of the chief deities at the beginning of the world.

Sacred Places

  • Huacas: The Inka referred to sacred locations, which included ancient pyramids, shrines, and important natural features, as huacas.

Capital of the Chimú Empire

  • The capital city of the Chimú Empire was known as Chan Chan.