Two sets of three hand-forged Mapuche silver akucha (breast pins), each pin with three tines. Each set with a raised design at the head and ball feet. Chile, Mapuche Tribe, c. 1900.
Total weight: 54g

The Mapuche are largest indigenous tribe in Chile. Their jewellery is symbolic and used as a form of communication, worn mainly in ceremonial settings. The most popular pieces include earrings and breast pins, and werethought to have magical properties protecting the wearer. The apex of the craft was reached at the end of the 19th/beginning of the 20th c. Pieces from this era are rare as the silver pieces were often melted or pawned.

Condition report available upon request.