Qero Cup
Arts of the Americas
The kero cup form originates with the Inca. The original decorations included abstract geometric patterns. After the arrival of Europeans, the kero evolved to include pictorial scenes, a European convention, but its function remained the same. Kero cups were used to drink chichi (maize beer) in ritual ceremonies, for instance in the sealing of a deal or agreement.
Although the kero looks similar to a European or North American colonial beaker, the two forms developed independently. The similarity of both cups in form and function created a link between Spanish and native cultures, reflecting the role of things in building cultural connections.
MEDIUM
Wood; lacquered
DATES
16th – 17th century
PERIOD
Colonial Period
ACCESSION NUMBER
41.1275.5
CREDIT LINE
Museum Expedition 1941, Frank L. Babbott Fund
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
CAPTION
Quechua. Qero Cup, 16th – 17th century. Wood; lacquered, 7 3/8 x 6 15/16in. (18.7 x 17.6cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1941, Frank L. Babbott Fund, 41.1275.5. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 1993.2_64.210.2_41.1275.5_SL3.jpg)
IMAGE
overall, 1993.2_64.210.2_41.1275.5_SL3.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2023
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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