Chipana

Chipana

in the religion of the Andes tribes, was a golden medallion, which the Incas in Peru fastened to the arm with a band, and varied according to their rank. The high-priest had the largest, the king next, and smaller ones were carried by the army officers. As these were hollow and polished inside, they were used to light tinder with, and thus the sacrifices were burned at the festivals of the sun. The deities were usually appeased by flowers and fruit- offerings.