Jaguar tooth neck ornament

Full view of a Jaguar tooth neck ornament
Huitoto, Putumayo Region, Northwest Amazon, pre-1926
Jaguar canines, blue and white trade beads, vegetable fibre
Accession Number 56.25.706

The jaguar is the most feared and respected of South American animals.

Some indigenous people believe jaguar teeth are powerful charms against dangerous spirits. They give children jaguar teeth ornaments to make them strong and keep them safe. Others use jaguar skins and teeth as status symbols.


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