Tupu Pins

The stem is long and sharp, made to be pierced through a traditional dress called an acsu with the aim of holding the fabric together at the front.

[5]The discovery of tupu pins in archeological sites of noble women indicates that the metal accessories were vital markers of Inca female identity.

[10] Tupu pins also represent an important part of Andean society in terms of lineage and were often considered family heirlooms.

[11] Silver and gold were believed to have celestial ties in Andean culture and serve as important aspects of religion and tradition.

The craft and trade of metals in South America, which are used to create and disperse items such as the tupu pin, has been greatly impacted as interactions with the Spanish began to increase.

Prior to the Spanish conquest, tupu pins were usually left undecorated, reflecting on Inca aesthetics emphasizing clarity of form, balanced proportions, and clean outlines.