Shamans, Supernaturals & Animal Spirits: Mythic Figures From the Ancient Andes

199
Sleeve or Band from a Tunic
Decapitator with Tumi Knife
Moche-Wari culture, Huarmey Valley
AD 750-1000
Cotton, camelid wool; interlocking and slit tapestry weave
4½" x 14"
Literature
Brugnoli, Sinclaire and Hoces de la Guardia 2007, 12.
This schematically rendered but animated interpretation of a ritual decapitator
with a tumi blade adheres more closely to regional artistic styles than does the
Wari-influenced version in cat. 198. Several traits place the composition within the
transitional period between Wari culture and the rise of the Chimú state.
Befitting this personage's role as a taker of human life, the long, curving plumes
drooping over his head terminate in other stylized heads. This adornment appears to
be a prototype for the headdress that subsequently becomes the major signifier for
describing supernatural or paramount status in Chimú art. Similarly, the visual emphasis
on long, narrow, modular shapes is conceptually akin to the figurative designs carved in
low relief on the walls of Chan Chan (the huge capital of the Chimor kingdom).
In addition to a platform behind the figure, another architectonic element is located in
front. This rectangle (which also features bird imagery) may designate an open courtyard
or other enclosure. In Moche traditions, for example, certain plazas were used specifically
for the display of human sacrifices. Huarmey societies probably continued this practice.
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