South American Incan Pre-Columbian Carved Altar Stone with Checkerboard Pattern. Part of a larger whole, but with an original pattern clearly visible etched into the stone. Two small holes have been bored into one side of it, indicating it was likely set on a pedestal for display at one time. It is difficult to ascertain the age of the piece, but it is likely between 500 and 600 years old. 

Condition: Commensurate with age. 

Size: 9 x 7 x 3 1/2 in. 

The checkerboard pattern in South American Pre-Columbian civilizations is most closely associated with the Inca, who dominated the western coastline of the continent from the early 13th through the end of the 16th Century, and were the last surviving of thousands of years of Andean culture and people, decimated by the Spanish conquests. The pattern was associated with the warrior class, found on tunics and other objects and likely designed as a form of camouflage. The pattern spread northward to areas of Central America, and is even found in some corners of the Oaxaca Valley, indicating the widespread trade routes the empire established at the height of their power. Given that this piece was carved into stone, it was likely part of a shrine that soldiers would worship at prior to battles or training exercises.

Commensurate with age.