Yawalapiti Ceramic Plate Published In The Jean-pierre Dutilleux Collection

Yawalapiti People – Upper Xingu, Brazilian Amazon
20th century

This piece is reproduced in Jean-Pierre Dutilleux’s book on the peoples of the Upper Xingu. The piece shown here corresponds to the dish appearing on the right in the published photograph.

DESCRIPTION

Rare traditional Yawalapiti dish made of molded and fired ceramic, circular in shape, with a diameter of 28 cm.

The exterior features a geometric design particularly characteristic of the Upper Xingu aesthetic. A large central white field is framed by two brick-red bands, separated by a frieze of black sawtooth triangles.

The interior is adorned with a pre-fired engraved design consisting of broad intersecting linear bands. Among these appears a zoomorphic figure resembling a stylized fish, discreetly integrated into the composition.

Entirely handmade using traditional techniques, this ceramic retains a beautiful patina of use as well as the slight irregularities characteristic of authentic indigenous productions.

PROVENANCE

Jean-Pierre Dutilleux Collection.

Collected during ethnographic expeditions among the peoples of the Upper Xingu.

Exhibition: Le Monde Premier.

Published in the reference work on indigenous peoples by Jean-Pierre Dutilleux.

ETHNOGRAPHIC INTEREST

The Yawalapiti are among the emblematic peoples of the Upper Xingu, a region renowned for the richness of its artistic and ceremonial traditions.

Items with direct provenance from Jean-Pierre Dutilleux, associated with a documented publication and exhibition, remain particularly rare on the European market.

A PIECE FROM THE DUTILLEUX COLLECTION

Its reproduction in the reference publication, as well as its connection to the exhibition *Le Monde Premier*, gives it a documentary and historical significance far exceeding that of a mere utilitarian object.

DIMENSIONS

Diameter: 28 cm