figures were stamped, being convex on the outer side and concave on the inner. The outer diameter was 5310 inches, the inner 4 inches. This is by far the most interesting relic of the Incas that is known to us.[1] I believe that the figures round the border represent the months, and that the five spaces separating them, one above and four below, are intended for the five intercalary days, Allcacanquis.[2] In giving an account of the months and their festivals, I will place each figure taken from the border of the breastplate against the month which I would suggest that it represents, with a description.
Intip Raymi, the first month of the Peruvian year, begins at the winter solstice, on June 22.[3] The sign of the gold breastplate occurs four times, for four months, two beginning and two ending with a solstice. The diamonds on the right and below perhaps indicate direction.
The great harvest festival of Intip Raymi is picturesquely described by Valera. The harvest had been got in. There was a great banquet in the Cusi Pata, one of the principal squares of Cuzco, when the Orejones renewed their homage.
- ↑ All traces of it are lost. Dr. Max Uhle recently made inquiries of General Echenique's son, but he knew nothing about it.
- ↑ Allca, wanting or missing; canqui, you are.
- ↑ Balboa, Fernandez, Cobos, and Huaman Poma have Aucay Cuzqui for this month. Molina has Cuzqui Raymi. Betanzos Hatun Cuzqui. The Council of Lima, Calancha, Polo, Morua, Acosta, and Velasco have Yntip Raymi.
