By the Cut of a Tumi: An Iconic Ceremonial Artifact of Ancient Peru

The tumi was a ceremonial knife used by several pre-Columbian cultures that inhabited the Peruvian coast, including the Moche, Sicán, Chimu, and Inca cultures, to carry out blood sacrifice and perform surgical procedures.

This artifact is easily recognized due to its semi-circular blade. In addition, its handle may also be quite distinct, as it is often sculpted with an animal or human effigy. As a ceremonial object, tumis were often made using a type of precious metal. These include gold, silver, copper, and bronze.

A tumi from Sipán, Peru. 850-1050 AD. The golden effigy depicts a richly decorated dignitary, possibly a priest, who is also holding a sacrificial knife in his hand. The earlobes once had turquoise inlaid in them. The back of this tumi is decorated with tear-shaped gold leaf. (Public Domain)