Artifact of the Month - Vintage Quinua Ceramic

1984.6.9 - Museum Purchase

In 1984, a traditional Quinua ceramic figurine was purchased from a Valerie’s Choice catalog by the Redding Museum of Art and History, one of the predecessors of Turtle Bay Exploration Park. It was incorrectly described in the catalog as a candle holder, but we discovered that this festive vessel is actually for drinking chicha on special occasions! The hand-built, hollow figure stands, holding a musical instrument, offering valuable insights into the significance of ceramics and chicha in the history and heritage of Peru.

Exploring the Quinua village and people virtually while researching this object was an absolute pleasure. It is fascinating how chicha, a corn-based beer popular in Central and South America, has maintained its sacred status for millennia. It has played a crucial role in the history of these civilizations and to this day remains significant to religion, ceremony, economy, community, and art.

Visit the Artifact of the Month exhibit in the Museum at Turtle Bay Exploration Park to learn more about this fascinating object from our permanent collection and to vote for the next Artifact of the Month!

Amanda Kramp, Assistant Curator of Collections and Exhibits