Chimu goldwork

Timeline

1. c. 900–1200Northern section of the Moche Valley · La Libertad RegionBuilding on the metallurgical traditions of the Moche civilization, the Chimú set up workshop districts at Chan Chan, developing lost-wax casting and gold–copper alloy techniques to produce ceremonial gold objects for use by the royal and priestly classes.
2. 1311–1320Chan Chan · La Libertad RegionIn the early 14th century CE, workshops attached to the compounds of Chan Chan continuously produced thin-bodied gold cups, gilded wooden figures, and silver ear ornaments, serving as tribute collected by the Chimú king from vassals and as diplomatic gifts; excavated molds and slag layers confirm large-scale production in this period.
3. c. 1470–1532North coast of Peru · La Libertad RegionAfter the fall of the Chimú kingdom, some goldsmiths were relocated to Cuzco to serve the Inca royal house, and lost-wax casting and gilding techniques were absorbed into the imperial workshop system. After the Spanish conquest, large quantities of Chimú gold objects were melted down, and only a few archaeological and museum specimens survive.