Objects of the Forest

MATERIAL: Paper-like material.

TECHNIQUE: The wasps “chew” the wood until it turns into a paste, which then hardens as a parchment, creating a lightweight structure.

USE: The nest of wasps, which dangles from a tree branch, is appropriated for decorative use due to its strong aesthetic quality.

Caba’s House

  • CABA'S HOUSE

    This decorative object is an uncommon natural shape that is appropriated for its strong aesthetic quality.

    “Caba’s House” is the name used in the region for the shelter or nest of wasps, which dangles from a tree branch. This exemplar is special for having an elongated shape. Its appearance is highly evocative of human craftsmanship, and when removed from its original context, it acquires the status of an art object.

    The object is made out of paper-like material. The species of wasp that produces this kind of shelter exists only in the Amazon, and they “chew” the wood until it turns into a paste, which then hardens as a parchment, creating a lightweight structure. The nesting chambers are constructed vertically, with openings facing downwards. Many combs are fixed, one below the other, and all combs combined are wrapped in many layers of “paper”, with an opening for the wasps to enter and leave.

    • The various species of wasps build their nests in different shapes, usually found hanging in tree branches.

    • Paper wasp, the “architect wasp”.

    • Through a section made in a caba’s house, it is possible to observe the various levels of internal combs and how thin its outer shell is. Usually, the objects’ size is around 40cm high.

    • The lower part of the nest has an opening for the wasps’ entrance.

  • 3D

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