Abstract

JUNKO A, Seto1*. Representation through miniatures in Aymara rituals in relation to the Alasita. Fides Et Ratio [online]. 2016, vol.12, n.12, pp.101-126. ISSN 2071-081X.

Abstract This study intends to reveal the features and importance of the representation through miniatures in Aymara rituals and to propose an interpretation of such representation as "constituting a precursor to cause or bring about the real". To achieve the aim, I will show some rituals observed among the Aymara people, based on my field research. Furthermore, in order to deepen the issue, I compare them to the Oaxaca ritual called "Pedimento" (petition) by means of miniatures; I also take into accountthe oral tradition of Viracocha and illas; and I examine the theory of the reduced model of Levi-Strauss, illustrating an interesting contrast with the Japanese culture that almost lacks the concept of miniature. In the light of these observations, various Aymara rituals can be understood through this interpretation. It also highlights a feature of representation by miniatures with the concept of Alasita among the Aymaras, which includes not only material objects but also non-material acts such as sowing rituals, like the Western concept of "miniature".

Keywords : Miniature; Alasita; illas; Lévi-Strauss; modèles réduits.

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