Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Member of the Maxuruna Amazon Tribe, 1836, Paper

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This lithograph, created by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, depicts an individual named Maxuruna, who appears to belong to an indigenous group, … Read more This lithograph, created by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, depicts an individual named Maxuruna, who appears to belong to an indigenous group, from South America, based on the adornments and distinctive features. The print showcases Brodtmann’s interest in indigenous peoples and their cultural markers, such as facial adornments and traditional ornamentation. : This lithograph portrays Maxuruna, a member of an indigenous tribe, identifiable by the unique facial piercings and decorations, possibly from the Amazon or another region in South America. The term Maxuruna may refer to an ethnic group from the Amazon Basin or a specific individual within an indigenous community. - Facial adornments: Maxuruna is shown with elaborate piercings, including circular disks in both cheeks and around the mouth, which are distinctive cultural markers of certain indigenous tribes. These types of body modifications often held symbolic or social significance, reflecting status, identity, or religious practices within the tribe. - Feather ornaments: The figure wears feathers attached to the piercings and a necklace with similar decorations, which may symbolize connection to nature, rank, or ceremonial roles within the community. Feathers were often used by many indigenous tribes to denote status or spiritual significance. - Hairstyle: Maxuruna's hair is styled in a central tuft, leaving the sides shaved or short, a possible cultural hairstyle that identifies the individual’s tribal affiliation. Maxuruna's expression is neutral but commanding, and Brodtmann’s detailed approach captures the texture of the skin, the positioning of the facial modifications, and the adornments, all rendered with precision. Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann (1787–1862), a Swiss lithographer, was known for his detailed work in both ethnographic and natural history subjects. His ethnographic prints offered European audiences insight into the diverse peoples encountered through exploration and colonization. His works were often part of larger collections documenting the variety of human cultures worldwide. Technique and Style: This piece, like many others by Brodtmann, was created using lithography, a printmaking technique that allows for great detail and subtle shading. Brodtmann’s style can be classified as ethnographic realism, focusing on the accurate representation of indigenous peoples and their distinct cultural attributes. The lithograph makes use of detailed shading, particularly around the piercings, hair, and facial features, to create a three-dimensional effect. The meticulous attention to the size, placement, and texture of the adornments demonstrates Brodtmann’s commitment to depicting the unique cultural markers of the individuals he portrayed. Cultural Context: The name Maxuruna might be linked to a South American indigenous group, likely from the Amazon Basin, such as the Matsés, Yagua, or Mayoruna. The body modifications and feather adornments are distinctive cultural practices seen among indigenous groups from this region, often serving as symbols of rank, identity, or spiritual significance. This print is part of a broader European fascination with the “exotic” and unfamiliar customs of indigenous peoples during the 19th century, reflecting both a curiosity about and a desire to document the world’s cultural diversity. Brodtmann’s portrayal of Maxuruna captures the intersection of artistic representation and anthropological documentation, contributing to the ethnographic knowledge of his time. This lithograph would have been part of a collection intended to educate European audiences about the peoples of distant lands, reflecting the broader trends of scientific exploration and colonial interest in the 19th century. See less