Sun / Sol de Mayo
The total of 32 flaming and straight rays of the Inca sun are filigree cut out in this pendant. The edge frames the sun portrait as a supporting frame, and the minimal points of contact give it great strength and emphasise its radiance.
The origin of the coin and therefore its name Sol de Mayo has its origins in the revolution for independence from Spain in May 1810. In 1813 Sol de Mayo was the first Argentine coin minted with this motif. It is also on the Argentine national flag.
The actual origin of the sun motif with the 16 flaming and 16 straight rays, however, lies in the mythology of the Incas. This also explains the alternative name of the picture: Inca sun.
With the symbol of the Inca sun, the sun god Inti has been represented since the beginning of the 15th century. According to the myth, his son founded the city of Cusco on earth and thus heralded the beginning of the Inca Empire. From this myth originates the idea of the Incas to be sons of the sun.
The sun god was honored with the festival Inti Raymi, the most important Inca celebration. This took place annually on June 21, the day of the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. It was at the same time thanks for the past year and a request for the protection of the sun for the beginning year. This was especially important for the sowing of the seeds that started soon after, in order to preserve the livelihood of the Inca people.
Pendant
The pendant Sol de Mayo stands with its long lasting mythical symbolism for warmth and energy. It is also an image of the power of life, which the sun gives us.
