Cf. Braun, B. (Ed.), Arts of the Amazon, London, 1995, p.36, for a similar poncho, called josho tari quënëya. According to the author the lattice of cross based motifs (called caros, from the Spanish cruz or "cross") that decorates the poncho may reflect 16th century missionary activity, although modern Shipibo claim it is derived from the Southern Cross constellation or from the cross-shaped breastbone of the manatee (also a Shipibo constellation). Worn to combat the chill at dusk, the costume also serves as a misquito repellent.