Dec. 17th Images of Ekeko, Andean God of Prosperity

Ekeko, the Andean God of Prosperity is a chubby little man, mustached and carrying a plethora of items thought to bring happiness. You'll see miniature money pinned to his clothing, sacks of seed and grain, musical instruments, cars, trucks, houses, anything of value or desire. I first came across an Ekeko doll in Quito,Ecuador years ago and still own it. I was surprised to see the same figure in Arequipa Peru and have since learned it is found throughout Bolivia,Peru,Ecuador and ? There is an upscale department store in Arequipa,Peru called 'La Casa del Ekeko' from which the large carved Andean Ekeko is located.

La Casa del Ekeko in Arequipa, Peru. He greets you at the door.

 I'm curious how the image got a mustache since facial hairs is not common in Andean Indigenous cultures.

At 16,000' the stone Ekeko made from rock and old clothing is full of items left by travelers like myself. Ekeko got some animal crackers from me whenever he needs a snack.