Necklace (Ngàpōkredjê)

ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-neck ornaments

Made AtBrazil, South America

MediumShell, bead and string

Dimensions28 × 10 1/4 × 1/2 in. (71.1 × 26 × 1.3 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Mark and Carolyn Blackburn

Object number2015.6.1

DescriptionThe Kayapó inhabit a large area south of the Amazon in central Brazil and is one of two cultures to speak the Mebengokre language, which is part of the larger Ge language classification. According the knowledge keeper of the Kikretum village, Piydjo, the ngàpōkredjê, also called ngap, are ceremonial necklaces made by the Kayapó women from freshwater shells, beads, and cotton string (kadhat kunrai) and are worn by adults and children in rituals such as the Bemp, Takak, Kworokango, and Mebiok. These ceremonies are the central focus of social life for the Kayapo, during which people receive new names. The participation of the entire community is very important in the ceremonies as well as seeking to be beautiful in their rituals because the value of beauty and its power are of great importance to the Kayapó. Another source, Mekler, states that the ngàpōkredjê is worn by adult men during various rituals. Children and adolescents may wear them at any time but they can only be worn by the person who has earned the right to wear it.

On View

Not on view

Collections