Nestled in the heart of the Altiplano region, a collection of 19th-century carved alabaster fetishes unveils a captivating chapter of traditional Aymara practices in Bolivia and Southern Peru. Crafted by the skilled hands of Callawaya, the revered Aymara healers of the region, these stone figures played a vital role in animal increase rites, seeking spiritual assistance for the prosperity and fertility of herds.

The alabaster fetishes, adorned with intricate carvings, are a testament to the artistry of the Callawaya. Traditional healers with deep cultural roots, they channeled their spiritual connection into these stone figures. The large carving of an Aymara compound, surrounded by alpacas, llamas, cattle, and dogs, paints an idealized vision of prosperity. The interior of the house, filled with full grain storage bags, symbolizes abundance and well-being.

These fetishes were integral to ceremonies conducted by the Callawaya, seeking the assistance of spirits for the well-being and fertility of their herds. The carved scenes represent a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the natural and spiritual realms.

Among the fetishes, the canopas stand out as remarkable examples of Incan offering vessels. Carved with round openings on their backs, these canopas held a ritual mixture of animal fat, powdered coca leaf, and other substances during animal increase ceremonies. Rare and intricate, these canopas provide a glimpse into pre-Columbian practices that have endured through the ages.

Alongside the canopas, the illas add another layer of significance to the collection. These smaller figures, also used in the same rites, symbolize the guardianship of fertility. Carved with precision and purpose, the illas are a testament to the spiritual reverence embedded in each stone.

This extraordinary collection, originating from an old and rare compilation, offers a unique window into Aymara traditions. The fetishes not only reflect the artistry of the Callawaya but also embody a cultural legacy preserved through generations. Surviving examples of this quality from the 19th century are scarce, making these fetishes larger, more elaborate, and among the finest in existence.

The carved alabaster fetishes from the Altiplano region narrate a tale of spiritual harmony, cultural richness, and the enduring legacy of traditional Aymara practices. As we admire these intricate stone figures, we are transported back in time to witness the sacred ceremonies that once sought the blessings of spirits for the prosperity of both herds and communities. In the hands of the Callawaya, the alabaster fetishes become not just artifacts but vessels of ancient wisdom and connection to the spiritual realm.