A somewhat complicated musical instrument, consisting of twelve pipes or
trumpets, made of bamboos fastened together, with trumpet-shaped
mouthpieces of bark, is used by one tribe of Indians. The sounds are
not disagreeable, resembling somewhat clarionets and bassoons. No
woman, however, is allowed to see them; and as soon as they are brought
out, all the females hurry off to hide themselves. Should any one
attempt to observe the mysterious instrument, she is immediately put to
death,--generally by poison. A father or a husband would not hesitate
on such an occasion to sacrifice his daughter or wife.
The Indians of the Uapes manufacture with great neatness a variety of
articles, such as fine hammocks, baskets, and gourds--which they paint
with elegant devices; also earthenware water-pitchers and pans for
cooking, and clay ovens. They also show skill in making several musical
instruments--like fifes and whistles, as also drums--and all sorts of
ornaments for the person. Their feather dresses are remarkable for
their elegance and the labour bestowed on them.
The Purupurus, one of the most savage tribes, have an instrument--
employed by no others--called the palheta. It is a piece of wood with a
projection at the end, in which the base of the arrow is secured. The
arrow is held with the handle of the palheta in the hand, and thus
thrown as a stone from a sling. The natives exhibit wonderful dexterity
in the use of this weapon, and with the greatest facility kill birds,
fish, and game of all sorts with it.