Zoomorphic figures in the Waurá art: notes on the study of an indigenous aesthetics.

Abstract

This article is about animal representations in Waurá (Upper Xingu, Brazil) art. The author tries to find the reasons for the choice of certain zoomorphic figures that adorn tribal objects; technical reasons, much more than symbolism are in the roots of this selection. The article also analises the relations between the Indians and their habitat, specially with the animals of the local fauna.