Archaeologists excavating the archaeological site of Ñusta Hispana in the Peruvian region of Vilcabamba discovered a group 38 pre-Hispanic metal artifacts. Four ceremonial vessels, one ring, four bracelets, two ceremonial knives, 18 pectoral pendants, a folded pectoral, a headband, six bowls and a headdress were found near the retaining wall at the foot of the second platform of the temple. Yurak Rumi (“White Rock”), a monumental sculpted rock sanctuary dedicated to the Incas, which was used in religious festivals.
An ornate pectoral with trapezoidal pendants, ceremonial vessels known as aquillas (gifts from Inca monarchs to loyal courtiers, often given as funeral offerings by the nobility) and other rich furniture were the personal attire of a man from the Cusco region who was of great importance to the Incas. society. The culture that produced them is currently unknown.
The objects are in good condition, and archaeologists from the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) have unearthed intact vessels with earth inside them so they can be examined for trace materials and organic remains to help determine their origin and archaeological evidence. the context of their burial.
Maritza Rosa Kandia, director of culture, confirmed that the items will undergo a preventive conservation process at the DDC Samples and Collections Department, as well as analysis at the physico-chemical laboratory to properly care for them.
“Specialists are going to carry out relevant research, such as the chemical composition of the metal or alloy they represent, iconography, dating, use, and other aspects to determine their origin and provenance,” he said.
Meanwhile, excavations at this site are planned to continue for another three months, so additional artifacts may be found before the work is completed.
