Arts and Crafts

Neither Rio de Janeiro [1] nor the surrounding state has much to boast of in terms of folk art or traditional crafts. However, if you won’t be traveling to other parts of Brazil [2], there are a few recommended boutiques where you can pick up some authentic artifacts and objets d’art.

For indigenous art and objects, there’s nowhere better than Artíndia, within the Museu do Índio [3] (Rua das Palmeiras 55, Botafogo, tel. 21/2286-8899, www.museodoindio.org.br [4], 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Tues.–Fri., 1–5 p.m. Sat.–Sun.). It carries an enticing variety of items made by various groups, ranging from jewelry and ceramics to musical instruments. Prices are quite reasonable, and proceeds are reverted to the indigenous communities.

With its wares decorating a lovely house on Largo dos Guimarães, La Vereda (Rua Almirante Alexandrino 428, Santa Teresa, tel. 21/2507-0317, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. daily) offers a terrific selection of traditional art and handicrafts from all over Brazil as well as contemporary works by neighborhood artists.