Report on the metal elections work of the museum of the Central Bank-Quito: A first approach to Ecuadorian metallurgy through the metal collection of the Central Bank Museum

Abstract

The collection of metal pieces at the Museo del Banco Central in Quito offers a valuable perspective on pre-Columbian metallurgy in present-day Ecuador. Officially started in 1946, this collection has brought together gold and other metal artifacts, providing a significant representation of diverse cultural phases. However, the museum's acquisition policy and aesthetic criteria can influence the statistical representativeness of the pieces, especially those made of gold. This article presents a preliminary statistical analysis of the collection, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of the data. Despite possible distortions, the results allow us to glimpse non-obvious aspects of pre-Columbian metallurgy and suggest avenues for future research. Given the scarcity of similar studies in Ecuador, this collection becomes a critical source for understanding the social and technological value of metallurgy in pre-Columbian societies in the region.