Shrunken Head (Tsantsa), early 20th Century
Shuar culture; Ecuador
Human head, fiber and wood…

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Shrunken Head (Tsantsa)

ClassificationsOrganic Materials-human remains

Culture Shuar

Dateearly 20th Century

Made AtEcuador, South America

MediumHuman head, fiber and wood

Dimensions5 3/8 × 7 3/8 × 10 3/4 in. (13.7 × 18.7 × 27.3 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. and Carolyn Honer

Object numberF83.7.1

DescriptionThe taking and shrinking of enemy heads is a practice of the Shuar people that has been outlawed by the Ecuadorian government since the 1940s. The heads were taken from slain warriors of neighboring tribes during periodic outbreaks of hostilities. When circumstances did not permit the taking of a human head, a substitute sloth or monkey head was acceptable. Warriors' heads were stored carefully, displayed prominently and highly revered as they conveyed the power of the deceased to the owner.

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