Chakana (Inca Cross) by Richard Marti. Iron, Limestone and 24 Karat gold leaf. It stands 144cm high by 140cm wide and 76cm deep.

The Chakana, is a significant symbol in Andean culture. It represents the bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms. Another name for the Chakana is the Inca Cross. Therefore, people could argue this is not an original design, which would be true! Where in fact it is very unique, with it’s texture and composition and above all, by the way it’s been made. Chakana (Inca Cross) by Richard Marti is a unique piece and was designed by Marti and meticulously crafted by Bottero, an Italian Blacksmith. It consists of 40 sections of iron and weighs approximately 750 kilograms. The sculpture is adorned with 24-karat gold leaf and rests on a limestone base. The cross itself measures 115cm in height, 140cm width, and 10cm in depth, while the overall dimensions, including the base, are 144cm high, 140cm wide, and 76cm deep.

The Chakana embodies the three levels of existence in Inca cosmology

• Hana Pacha, the upper world inhabited by higher gods.​

• Kay Pacha, the earthly realm of human life.

• Ukhu Pacha, the underworld of ancestors and spirits.​

The central hole in the cross signifies the passage between these realms, and the stepped design reflects the terraces found in Incan architecture. The outer cross represents the cardinal points, indirectly relating to the sun god, the highest deity. ​

The Sculpture Park currently are displaying Chakana.  What’s more if you wish to purchase the piece, The Sculpture Park team are able to arrange the full removal and installation.