Shipibo-Konibo Artist Pempem Contemporary...

Updated August 22, 2026

Shipibo-Konibo Artist Pempem Contemporary Shipibo-Konibo Painting. This original Shipibo-Konibo painting, titled <b>Pempem</b>, presents a striking butterfly-centered composition filled with rich ceremonial symbolism and intricate <b>kene</b> designs. Carefully rendered in vivid tones of green, orange, deep red, pink, blue, and black, the work reflects the visual language and spiritual worldview of the Shipibo-Konibo people of the Peruvian Amazon. According to the artist, the painting is inspired by the <b>ayahuasca ceremony</b>. The green areas within the butterfly incorporate <b>maya kene</b>, a curved design; the orange sections feature <b>runin kene</b>, associated with serpent forms; and the wine-red passages represent <b>rao kene</b>, or bone-inspired design. The pink flowers symbolize <b>bobinzana</b>, a sacred plant traditionally associated with preparation before the ayahuasca ceremony. Surrounding the composition is a circular field of protection, a recurring and meaningful element in Shipibo-Konibo textile and painted design traditions. Visually powerful and highly decorative, this work combines spiritual symbolism with refined geometric balance, making it an outstanding example of contemporary Amazonian Indigenous art. Its bold butterfly image, ceremonial references, and finely detailed <b>kene</b> patterns give the painting strong wall presence and exceptional collector appeal. <b>ARTIST</b> Shipibo-Konibo artist, Peru. <b>PROVENANCE</b> Acquired in Peru for Gallery Arts & Auctions Co. <b>AUTHENTICITY</b> This work is an original Shipibo-Konibo painting. A Certificate of Authenticity may be provided upon request, when available. <b>DIMENSIONS</b> Height: 39 3/8 in. Width: 39 3/8 in.

More lots in this auction

• Rono Metsa Ani Xeati - The Great Celebration
• Luzmila Zea Chavez "Metsa Luz" (Peruvian...
• Henry Ossawa Tanner, Street Scene with Figures...
• Pablo Picasso, Bust of a Woman in Profile
• Antonio Cirino, Coastal Scene with Fishing Shacks
• Pablo Picasso, Abstract Figure
• Original Peruvian Handcrafted Murana with...
• John Thomas Biggers, Fanti Fishing Boat

See all lots in International Fine Art & Original Peruvian Ceramics →