“Guardian of the Nectar Veil” — Ticuna Tribe Pucuna Hummingbird Figure
Handcrafted in Colombia
A fusion of earthly beauty and sacred ritual, Guardian of the Nectar Veil stands tall at 21 inches, its elegant form radiating both protection and power. Created by a Ticuna artist of Colombia, this pucuna figure transforms the timeless symbol of the hummingbird into a spiritual sentinel—guardian of life’s thresholds, bearer of ancestral presence.
Draped in ceremonial white, the figure’s robe is painted with vivid scales of emerald, sapphire, and turquoise, echoing the iridescent shimmer of a hummingbird in flight. The removable mask—painted in brilliant green and black—transforms the figure from human to avian being, embodying the shapeshifting spirit that bridges worlds. In one hand, the doll holds a ritual disc shield, embroidered with sacred geometric patterns in lime and fuchsia. In the other, it grips a slender staff—a symbol of guidance and continuity.
Pucuna figures like this are used in Tikuna coming-of-age ceremonies, honoring the passage into adulthood. But their meaning goes deeper: they are spirit messengers, woven into sacred rites and ancestral memory. Each mark, stitch, and stroke carries the weight of generations, connecting the human realm to that of forest spirits and deities.
Guardian of the Nectar Veil is not simply a doll. It is a vessel—of transformation, tradition, and spiritual presence.
Details:
- Dimensions: 7" W x 21" H
- Origin: Made by a Ticuna artist in Colombia
- Materials: Painted bark cloth, cotton, wood, natural dyes
- Technique: Hand-painted, stitched, and assembled
- Representation: Hummingbird spirit figure
- Ceremonial Use: Coming-of-age rites, ancestral offerings
- Symbolism: Transformation, protection, spiritual passage
- Uniqueness: One of a kind
Pucuna dolls are more than decorative art; they hold deep ceremonial and social significance for the Tikuna people. These dolls play key roles in rituals, such as coming-of-age ceremonies, symbolizing life's transitions and milestones. They are also used in sacred practices to honor ancestral spirits and deities, serving as bridges between the physical and spiritual realms.
Each pucuna doll is intricately designed, adorned with symbolic motifs believed to invoke blessings and protection. Central to the Tikuna’s spiritual and cultural traditions, these dolls reflect their profound connection to their ancestors and the natural world.
Handwoven in colombia by
Ticuna Tribe Craftsmen
No. of Artisansdozens of artists across multiple communities |
Originupper Amazon River basin |
Fairly Made. Community Driven.
Each Ticuna Tribal doll is purchased directly from the artist at fair prices that support families, preserve tradition, and sustain local economies.
