Ch'uta portrait La Paz Carnival Bolivia is a photograph by James Brunker which was uploaded on February 15th, 2024.
Ch'uta portrait La Paz Carnival Bolivia
A portrait of a ch'uta dancer taken during Carnival celebrations in La Paz, Bolivia. The ch'uta character appears to have originated Caquiaviri, a... more
Title
Ch'uta portrait La Paz Carnival Bolivia
Artist
James Brunker
Medium
Photograph
Description
A portrait of a ch'uta dancer taken during Carnival celebrations in La Paz, Bolivia. The ch'uta character appears to have originated Caquiaviri, a village in the Pacajes Province in the altiplano regions southwest of La Paz. They 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 15th, 2024