This is from the Chaco area in Paraguay, around 1971. Pictured is a Village chief and Medicine Man of the Ayoreo clan. The footage is from the beginning stages of missionary influence. The Medicine Man is performing a Jaguar hunting ritual. This ritual represents both the hunter as well as the spirit of the animal, which he channels through his dance. As early as a year after contact with the missionaries, such rituals were abolished, and considered demonic. The Government encouraged the missionaries to infiltrate the natives, who were seen as a threat.This Medicine Man is performing a ritualistic incantation for health and healing
