Picture of Quechua (Inca) leaders with the staffs that showed their superior rank
This is the front of the staff
This is the back of the staff
Long view of the staff
Quechua staff
ca. 1800s
Cuzco, Peru
Chonta wood, silver alloy
133 x 9 cm
Origin; This staff originated during the colonial period. This is evident by the image of the cross on the front of the staff.
History: Staffs such as this one were symbols of authority and rank among the Quechua/Inca people at the time of the colonial period. The staffs were mostly made of Chonta wood and were ornamented with silver bands and Christian images. Leaders such as those responsible for projects such as planting and harvesting carried these staffs to convey to the people that they were in charge.
Relevance: Today, staffs such as this one are used by leaders of Catholic ceremonies Staffs of this kind continue to be used by leaders in South American societies for Catholic ceremonies and public rituals. These staffs are so durable that they can last for up to 150-200 years.
The theme of how the Andean people mixed their religion with Christian symbols is evident in this staff. The organic wood of the Andes meets the Christian symbol of the cross. The combination of the two reflects the Andean people’s ability to be flexible in including Christian traditions with their own previous religion.
(http://nmai.si.edu/exhibitions/infinityofnations/andes/218515.html#about)