Ch'uta dancer costume detail La Paz Carnival Bolivia
by James Brunker
Title
Ch'uta dancer costume detail La Paz Carnival Bolivia
Artist
James Brunker
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
A shot showing a typical embroidered jacket worn by a ch'uta dancer during Carnival celebrations in La Paz, Bolivia. The ch'uta character appears to have originated Caquiaviri, the name on the top of the jacket and a village in the Pacajes Province in the altiplano regions southwest of La Paz. "Cuna del ch'uta" means "cradle / birthplace of the ch'uta". Ch'utas are considered to be guardians of the harvests, it is thought that the name refers to indigenous people who were required to provide labor and services to the landowners for certain periods. The masks and elaborate embroidered costumes were a parody of their masters, who were usually of European descent. Ch'uta dances are often seen at festivals in La Paz Department between November and April (which is when much agricultural activity occurs), and are also one of the main characters at La Paz Carnival parades.
Photograph © James Brunker. Reproduction, transmission or use in any form without written permission strictly prohibited.
Uploaded
February 14th, 2024
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