Copper Tweezers
Unknown Artist
before 16th century
Medium
Copper (hammered)
Dimensions
Height 1-1/2 in. (3.9 cm)
Classification
Metal-Implements
Culture
Peruvian
Department
Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Jane Costello Goldberg, from the Collection of Arnold I. Goldberg, 1986
Accession Number
1987.394.198
Art Historical Context
This delicate pair of copper tweezers, crafted an unknown Peruvian artist before the 16 century, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated metalworking traditions of pre-Columbian Peru. Hailing from the ancient cultures of the Andes—possibly Inca or earlier civilizations—this small implement (just 1-1/2 inches tall) reflects the ingenuity of indigenous artisans who mastered metallurgy long European contact. Displayed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, entered the collection through the generous bequest of Jane Costello Goldberg in 1986. Ham...