Page:The Incas of Peru.djvu/154

120 figures were stamped, being convex on the outer side and concave on the inner. The outer diameter was 5 inches, the inner 4 inches. This is by far the most interesting relic of the Incas that is known to us. 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. 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.

the first month of the Peruvian year, begins at the winter solstice, on June 22. 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.