Armadillos are rarely seen in the wild but are popular subjects for local artisans. The example in the
middle was carved by Antonio, who suffers from the effects of leprosy. (See wood carver.)
Native Indians believe armadillos cause leprosy and scientific studies show that armadillos carry the
bacteria. However, the connection between exposure to armadillos and acquiring the disease is unproven.
The two armadillos either side are made from small calabashes for the body and pieces of balsa for the
head and tail.
|
|