Mapuche silverwork
In the late 18th century, the silver jewellery industry was flourishing in the Araucanía Region, an incredible variety of styles and unique designs marking the high point of Mapuche wealth and power. At that time, Mapuches moved freely around a vast territory as far as the Argentine pampas, dominating the livestock and horse trade at cross-border trading posts. The silver coins they earned became a symbol of power and prestige, and the spouses of the lonkos (chiefs) began wearing them as ornaments.
Mapuche woman, 19th century. Illustration, José Pérez de Arce.
Mapuche woman, early 20th century. Illustration, José Pérez de Arce.
Mapuche woman, today. Illustration, José Pérez de Arce.
Mapuche silverwork
Woman’s headband, silver and cloth Mapuche. XIX-XX century MCHAP,1648
Mapuche silverwork
Mapuche silverwork
Silver chest ornaments Mapuche,XIX-XX century 7,8: MCHAP, 1211, 1616
Estribos Istripus. Mapuche. MCHAP 1328 a y b
Estribo. Mapuche. MCHAP 1328 a
Estribo, detalle. Mapuche. MCHAP 1328 a