Fragment Possibly 800 - 1100

"Fragment," a textile from the Wari culture, dates to the late 8th to 11th centuries AD. The piece, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, features a complex geometric pattern of interlocking squares and rectangles, woven into a dark fabric, likely cotton. The design demonstrates the skilled craftsmanship of Wari weavers and reflects their sophisticated understanding of textile production, possibly intended for use in ceremonial garments or as a symbol of status. This fragment offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions of the Wari people and their enduring legacy in the textile arts.