This project aims to document the system of material knowledge associated with the ritual hunting performed by the A’uwe-Xavante people in Central Brazil. More than mean of obtaining food, collective xavante hunting with fire is an important moment in the rites of passage system, called Danhõno, of formation of the A’uwẽ Xavante adult man. Although it is representative of the efficient environmental management of the Xavante people and of their intrinsic relationship with the Cerrado, this practice is endangered by historical public and governmental disapproval due to the use of fire. Furthermore, the Xavante are experiencing a gradual process of replacing traditional hunting instruments with industrial utensils and weapons, as well as a growing lack of interest among young people in learning how to manufacture these artifacts. Climate change, which has turned the region hotter and drier, increases the threats posed to this knowledge system by deforestation and loss of territory. Through meetings, workshops, interviews, filming and participant observation, the project will follow and document the knowledge holders in the village making objects linked to ritual hunting, such as baskets, musical instruments and arrows. Finally, the documentation of ritual hunting will place these objects and their uses within a system of interconnected material and immaterial knowledge.
PI: Ana Lúcia Ferraz
Collaborators: Maíra Taquiguthi Ribeiro, Eduardo Santos Gonçalves Monteiro, and Gilson Moraes da Costa
Location of Research: Aldeia Namunkurá, Terra Indígena São Marcos, Mato Grosso, Brazil
Host Institution: Associação Ciranda
Top banner image: Detail of the Xavante people’s vegetable fiber bracelet. Photo credit: Eduardo Monteiro.