I know nothing about the great uncles, apart from what I have gleaned through my tree research. They may well have travelled, for business or pleasure. There were World Fairs in Chicago in 1893 & 1933, maybe purchased there by Illinois great uncle? From 1930 onwards he was living in Canton, Illinois. Not too far from Chicago. I have 2 other items with a Chicago provenance, so maybe he was a occasional visitor.
I think I can conclude that its not south American, but which great uncle might have sent it will remain a mystery.
Thank you all for the information.