South American Amazonian ‘Tukano’ Indian Ceremonial Deer Bone Flute
A South American Amazonian ‘Tukano’ Indian Ceremonial Deer Bone Flute Adorned with Parrot and Toucan Feather Danglers
Late 19th – Early 20th Century
SIZE: 25cm long – 9¾ ins long
Late 19th – Early 20th Century
SIZE: 25cm long – 9¾ ins long
This musical instrument is generally played by men and is heard during the ‘CHICHA’ festival, which is held to celebrate the manioc harvest. ‘CHICHA’ is a kind of potent fermented drink made from grated manioc root and toasted casava. Vast quantities are consumed together with pounded coca leaves by the men of the community whilst the shaman controls the pace of the dancing which culminates in a mass trance-like state. The deer bone flute emits a bizarre, piercing, eerie, but melodious and hypnotic sound which is made by blowing down a small slit cut into the head. The flute is played between the dances at the festival to invoke the spirits to join the ceremonies.
South American Amazonian ‘Tukano’ Indian Ceremonial Deer Bone Flute
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