Miniature human and animal figurines were created for deposition as offerings or to accompany human sacrifices. The figurines were composed of high-value silver, gold, or Spondylus shell. Examples found archaeologically are associated with sacrifices of male and female juveniles, a ritual known as capacocha (qhapac hucha). At high-altitude sites, the preserved remains of juveniles have been found accompanied by figurines. Some capacocha offerings also include small stone figures (conopa or illa) with holes in their backs for the placement of offerings, such as this example. The offerings may include maize kernels, animal fat, coca leaves, or seashells.

Adapted from

Kimberly L. Jones, PhD, Inca: Conquests of the Andes / Los Incas y las conquistas de los Andes, Label text [1982.393.FA; 1983.632; 1983.633; 1983.634; 1983.635; 1983.636; 1989.W.2483], 2015.