Antique Bolivian Aymara Indian Coca Bag with Protective Stone IIla Amulet This is a beautiful traditional sacred coca bag called a Tari or chuspa from the Orura area of the Bolivian Andes. The Aymara/Quechua cultures use these bags for the collection and carrying of the sacred coca leaf. The pouch has been hand woven with sheep and llama wool with a small pocket used for carrying a protective carved amulet. The protective amulet, or uta illa is carved from huamanga, an alabaster stone found in the Andes and is in the form of a ram that would have been carried to protect the user's herd from harm. The small amulet shows deposits of untu, or spiritual fat from the male llama's chest, which is ceremonially rubbed into amulets and ritual objects, as well as the participant's faces and hands; the pinkish stain is also applied ceremonially with natural plant dye. This is a beautiful bag for any textile collection - a treasure! Measurement: Approx. 5 1/2" x 5 1/4" without the strap #22941     $165 Sale - $125 SOLD

© Copyright 2002 by Nomad's Journey.
All photos, graphics, images and stories are the property of Nomad's Journey and cannot be used without permission.