La reproducción del orden social y cósmico en el sistema de priostazgo de la fiesta del Señor del Árbol de Pomasqui (Pichincha – Ecuador)

Abstract

The present ethnography focuses on the study of the priostazgo system of the Lord of the Tree feast in the town of Pomasqui (northwest of Quito) to show how this system contributes to the reproduction of a social and cosmic order while ensuring the continuity of said festivities. Supporting in the theory of practice, this document argues that the role of the priostes within the celebration of the Lord of the Tree is not limited to sponsorship and disbursement of money but to the fulfillment of ancient Andean practices through the execution of several rites and ceremonies that complement those of Catholic origin, and that are necessary to complete the sacred cycle in honor of the patron of Pomasqui. Such practices directly affect the creation and strengthening of debt and reciprocity relations originated around the sacred image which generate, while maintaining, an important symbolic capital for those who have been priostes. This ethnography is helped by the main tools used by anthropological science such as: field work, non-directive interviews, participant observation and a photographic record of the tasks performed by the priostes of the Lord of the Tree to worship their patron.