The women and children of Peru sculpted in Clay by a Peruvian Artist. 6” wide and 6” tall hollow inside sculpture can be hung on wall but is also perfect for Sandtray therapy. There are 7 women and 5 are holding Babes. 2 are not. Very fine details and powerful imagery.
For Peruvians, one’s family is often considered to be the most important part of life. In Peru, there is a general expectation that individuals remain loyal and committed to their family by putting the interests of their family before their own. Similarly, these close-knit family relations help provide a network of security and support, especially in times of need. Families will often sacrifice much to provide a good education for their children, and in return, children usually care for their parents as they age. Other non-related people act as important members of a Peruvian’s life. For example, the relationship called ‘padrinazgo’ (godparenthood) is an extension of the family structure. One’s godparents often become ‘second parents’ who are responsible for the child’s religious development and to help the child’s parents in times of need.
The set of attributes that are generally perceived as ideal for males and females in are known as ‘machismo’ and ‘marianismo’ respectively. Under these cultural standards, men are expected to be masculine, self-reliant and dominant. Meanwhile, women are expected to be feminine and the main providers of care. One effect of these attitudes is visible in the differing expectations placed upon men and women regarding the household. Men tend to be responsible for financially supporting the family and are usually consulted for major family matters.
In general, raising children and managing the household finances are the responsibility of the mother. In turn, she usually exerts great influence in family decision making. However, in many middle- and upper-class households, the mother does not usually carry out domestic tasks. Rather, the mother supervises and directs employed domestic helpers and child carers. Women who fill these positions as domestic helpers tend to come from rural, lower-socioeconomic areas, sometimes leaving their children behind to earn a family income.
In recent generations, gender roles and expectations have been gradually changing. attitudes in Peru are considered by many to be a significant problem that leads to feminicidio (‘femicide’). Many Peruvians have engaged in strikes to protest gender violence as part of the ‘Ni Una Menos’ (‘Not One Less’) movement. Women are also becoming more visible and influential in the economic and political facets of Peruvian society. Indeed, it is more common to find women working outside the home in many professional fields.
A popular event for young teenage girls is their quinceañera (15th birthday). This event is believed to mark a girl's transition to adulthood. It is celebrated throughout Peruvian society, regardless of the family's socioeconomic standing. Boys usually celebrate their transition into adulthood at age 18.