Cultural Textile Artifacts

Historical textile pieces, including ceremonial tunics and skirts, displaying intricate patterns and cultural significance from various regions.

Tunic, 600-1200, 40 3/4 x 38 3/16 in. (103.51 x 97 cm), Cotton, camelid fiber, Peru, 7th-13th century, In ancient Andean cultures including the Wari empire, clothing communicated much more than style; a ceremonial tunic like this was an object of great prestige. Its production required the cooperation of a large community of skilled individuals. Because it took so long to create, multiple weavers would often collaborate on a single piece. On close inspection, variations in weavers individual styles can be seen in the weave structure as well as the interpretation of the repeating pattern.
Tunic, 600-1200, 40 3/4 x 38 3/16 in. (103.51 x 97 cm), Cotton, camelid fiber, Peru, 7th-13th century, In ancient Andean cultures including the Wari empire, clothing communicated much more than style; a ceremonial tunic like this was an object of great prestige. Its production required the cooperation of a large community of skilled individuals. Because it took so long to create, multiple weavers would often collaborate on a single piece. On close inspection, variations in weavers individual styles can be seen in the weave structure as well as the interpretation of the repeating pattern.