Peruvian Moche Metal Claw Grave Goods

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Archaeologists in Peru say they have unearthed the previously unknown [1500 year old] tomb of a nobleman from a pre-Inca civilization known as the Moche.

Among the most intriguing artifacts are ornamental metal pieces fashioned to look like feline paws with claws.

The paws may have been part of a ritual costume used in ceremonial combat, El Comercio reported. The loser would be sacrificed, while the winner would get the costume.

Via NBC News.

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I design video games for a living, write fiction, political theory and poetry for personal amusement, and train regularly in Western European 16th century swordwork. On frequent occasion I have been known to hunt for and explore abandoned graveyards, train tunnels and other interesting places wherever I may find them, but there is absolutely no truth to the rumor that I am preparing to set off a zombie apocalypse. Nothing that will stand up in court, at least. I use paranthesis with distressing frequency, have a deep passion for history, anthropology and sociological theory, and really, really, really hate mayonnaise. But I wash my hands after the writing. Promise.

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