Unique ancient figurine of conjoined toads found in Peru

"Archaeologists have discovered an unfired clay figurine of conjoined toads at the ancient site of Vichama in Peru's Caral Archaeological Zone (ZAC). About 12 cm (4.7 inches) long, the figurine depicts two small frogs or toads joined at their hind legs. This is the first time a clay figurine like this one has been found not just at Vichama, but at any of the Caral sites. Toads represented water, the arrival of the rains and new life in ancient Andean civilizations."

"The skeletal remains of toads have been found in ritual arrangements (tied with reeds) and incorporated into tupus (long pins with broad heads). The discovery of this unique double-toad figurine reinforces the narratives found in Vichama's wall reliefs. Vichama was an urban center of the Norte Chico culture located on a hill 250 feet above sea level less than a mile from the Pacific coast and overlooking the right bank of the Huara River."

An unfired clay figurine of two conjoined toads measuring about 12 cm was recovered at Vichama in Peru's Caral Archaeological Zone. The figurine depicts two frogs or toads joined at their hind legs and represents toad symbolism linked to water, the arrival of rains, and new life in ancient Andean belief. Toad remains appear in ritual arrangements and as elements in tupus. Vichama functioned as an urban center of the Norte Chico culture around 1800–1500 B.C., surviving prolonged droughts through agriculture and fishing. Archaeological excavations uncovered 28 buildings, plazas, residential areas, and unfired clay models demonstrating urban planning knowledge.

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