Mochica Backflaps Or Coccyx Protectors

Room 9, Vitrine 107

Metal
Peruvian Northern Coast
Florescent Epoch (1 AD – 800 AD)
ML100790-ML100793, ML101478, ML101479

As part of their clothing, Mochica warriors wore an adornment on the lower part of their backs. In Mochica illustrations of their customs we can see how this item covered the coccyx of the warriors, and that is why we call it a coccyx protector or “backflap”. It was shaped like a ceremonial knife and the blade was sharpened and appears to have been used, indicating that it may have been used for cutting.

A rattle is incorporated into the upper part of this adornment. Here we find depictions of ulluchus, a fruit associated with sacrificial and fertility rituals. The warriors’ clothing included rattles in a variety of designs, which were hung from the wearer’s belt.

Coccyx protectors made from gilded copper, silver-plated copper and copper; gilded copper rattles.