Amazon Feathers - what are they for?

[Battara]

A couple of years ago I was given these Amazon feathers. I think they are sacred for for ceremonial use.

My questions:

1. Am I right about these feathers being sacred?

2. What tribe are they from (I'm thinking Karaja tribe in Brazil but not sure)?

3. Any idea on age?

I would appreciate any help any of you can give me.

[Battara]

No thoughts, anyone? :confused:

[kai]

Hello Jose,

1. Am I right about these feathers being sacred?
I guess you need to establish provenance first - certainly looks like ceremonial items.

On another note, the large feathers are from Ara parrots - all species covered by CITES (in different appendices).


2. What tribe are they from (I'm thinking Karaja tribe in Brazil but not sure)?
Your best bet will probably be to contact Andreas Schlothauer - he has lots of experience with ethno feather craft from South America: http://www.andreasschlothauer.com


3. Any idea on age?
From the cord attached to the larger example, I believe them to be not really old (vintage at best) unless collected right after manufacture and meticulous storage...

Regards,
Kai

[Battara]

So helpful Kai thank you.

CITES: Didn't know. Well fortunately these were given to me and the giver can't remember the origins. But then when the Creator brings me sacred objects, I dare not refuse them. Some I use in my ceremonial work.

Also thank you for the link. I will try that out.