Possibly Inca

The attribution "Possibly Inca" refers to a significant body of artwork originating from the Inca civilization, active during the Late Intermediate and Late Horizon periods, spanning approximately 1200 to 1476. The surviving objects reflect the technological and artistic mastery achieved in the Andean highlands prior to the colonial era.

The documented works demonstrate technical skill across different media, primarily focusing on textile arts and metallurgy. Four textiles are represented in major collections, often inventoried as generic Fragments, indicating their potential use in larger tapestries or garments. One distinct textile is identified as a Fragment (Headband or Belt). In metallurgy, the representation is anchored by a single, important metalwork piece: a Breastplate.

These documented artifacts are critical for understanding the visual culture of the empire. Five key works are currently held in museum collections, confirming their status as museum-quality historical objects. These are represented in the permanent holdings of the Art Institute of Chicago. While the unique artifacts themselves are inaccessible to the general public, photographic records of this material culture are often distributed as downloadable artwork. This access ensures that high-quality prints of the geometric designs and masterful weaving can be studied widely. Furthermore, institutional records related to these important historical items frequently reside in the public domain.