Baptismal Font

This silver baptismal dish is attributed to the eighteenth-century Cuzco school of viceregal Peru based on its stylistic similarity to other silverwork from the region. Its size and the presence of a secular coat of arms indicates that it was likely intended for domestic display rather than ecclesiastical use in the sacrament of baptism. It was probably a decorative piece for an upper-class home that refers to religious activity. This font takes the form of a scallop shell, a common Christian symbol of rebirth and baptism. Three conch shells compose the feet. The elaborate backsplash features the Lesser Royal Coat of Arms of Spain, in use from 1700 to 1868, including a representation of the Pillars of Hercules with the words “plus ultra,” meaning “further beyond” in Latin. This is a reference to Spain’s supposed discovery of the Americas. The backsplash also includes two cornucopias filled with feathers, symbols associated with Indigenous American culture that had spiritual and political significance. Pre-Columbian Andeans had a rich metalwork tradition due to the abundance of gold and silver in the region. During the colonial period, many Indigenous artists continued to silversmith but began making European forms. The inclusion of feathers in this design is an example of the hybrid visual and material culture that emerged in colonial Peru.