Flute
| Culture | Chimú |
|---|---|
| Title | Flute |
| Date | 10th–late 15th century |
| Medium | Bone |
| Dimensions | Object: 15/16 × 4 3/4 in. (2.4 × 12.1 cm) Overall: 15/16 x 4 3/4 in. (2.4 x 12.1 cm) |
| Credit Line | Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University |
| Accession Number | 72.21.7 |
| This artwork is currently off display. You may be able to see this artwork by filling out an art viewing room request. | |
A flute with bird heads depicted and small circle and dot decorations throughout.
Music played an important role in the Chimú culture, as well in the Inca Empire that conquered them. Music was played to heal the sick as well as at major life events such as funerals and during war. Additionally, music was used to communicate with ancestors. Decorated with birds and small concentric circles this flue is carved from bone.
Provenance research is ongoing for this and many other items in the Eskenazi Museum of Art permanent collection. For more information about the provenance of this artwork, please contact the department curator with specific questions.
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Cite this page
"Flute | Collections Online." Collections Online. Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University, 2025. https://artmuseum.indiana.edu/collections-online/browse/object.php?number=72.21.7