April 1, 2024
Late 1800's-1900 Kuna Nuchu Medicine Doll w/Stand. Very Special. Mola Panama
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Kuna medicine doll called a Nuchu or Uchu (depending on what part of the islands you are in)Kuna Indian Nuchu carved as a guardian spirit.Age:late 1880's-early 1900's.The Kuna nuchus (medicine dolls) were collected by myself and partner in Kuna villages on over 100 collecting expeditions to Kuna-Yala from the early 1970's-2003 (this nuchu was purchased by us in the late 70's.) For example, age was best determined if the person I was buying the nuchu from told me that it had been in his family's possession since his grandfather's time, or had belonged to his father. After purchasing and handling thousands of these Kuna medicine dolls you acquire a certain knowledge of being able to tell the approximate age of the nuchu. Certain styles of carving and attire are attributed to certain periods of time.The Innatuledi (Shaman) carves the nuchu from sacred trees, singing, infusing the nuchu with a tutelary spirit (soul-"purba") Nuchus are a vehicle by which the Kuna connect to their spiritual world.This very old Nuchu of a very important Kuna chief (his wearing the top hat) and glass eyes has been used for so many years that his features have been rubbed smoothed with age. Kuna Indian nuchu /uchu (medicine doll) carved as a guardian spirit of a Kuna chief. Age:late 1880's-early 1900's. 5 in.in height and comes with its own stand.The Innatuledi
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