**Originally Listed At $3000**

**This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.**

South America, Ecuador / Peru, Amazon Rainforest, Jivaroan people, Shuar tribe, ca. mid-20th century CE. A remarkable collection of traditional regalia made from rainforest flora and fauna: feathers, beetle wings, seeds, and vegetal / cotton fibers. The headband is made from hundreds of tightly arranged feathers woven into cotton cords; yellow-orange plumes from aracaris (toucans), and a central band of black and iridescent turquoise feathers likely from a spangled cotinga. The akitiai earrings are beetle wing casings from ceiba borers (Euchroma giganteum) on the left with aracari feathers, and green scarabs (Chrysophora chrysochlora) on the right. The necklace is vegetal fibers strung with seeds and glass beads. Jivaroan people traditionally practiced head-hunting, and this feather headdress and akitiai earrings were exclusively for a warrior that had killed. A spectacular and museum worthy collection! Size of feather headband: 8" Diameter x 5" W (20.3 cm x 12.7 cm); case: 23" L x 15.3" W x 25.5" H (58.4 cm x 38.9 cm x 64.8 cm)

The Shuar are one of several Jivaroan tribes known for headhunting practices, which include the Achuar, Aguaruna, and Huambisa of Ecuador and Peru. Shrinking a head was thought to capture the spirit of the enemy and prevent the soul from avenging his death. In addition, leaders would use shrunken heads to frighten their enemies - serving as an intimidating warning. The heads were also created for feasts and ceremonies to celebrate the tribe's victories. Men who had killed a certain number of people were allowed to wear feather headdresses and beetle wing earrings like these here to denote their rank and status.

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Please note that this item is heavy/oversized. Please inquire about shipping prior to bidding.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#177433

Excellent and choice. Some minor fraying to beaded necklace and a few chips to beetle wings. Displayed in a museum quality acrylic case with mannequin torso as shown.