Tunic 600 - 1200

textile, cotton

pattern heavy

natural stone pattern

wood texture

pottery

textile

animal print

geometric pattern

tile art

wooden texture

pattern repetition

cotton

layered pattern

This Wari Tunic, dating from 600 to 1200, is a fine example of pre-Columbian textile art. Crafted from wool and cotton, it displays a vibrant geometric design with intricate details. The garment is notable for its striking color palette and repeated motifs, demonstrating the Wari's skill in weaving and textile production. Today, this tunic can be viewed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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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. Before the weavers could begin their work, several other professionals were required. Agricultural specialists bred the animals and cultivated the cotton. Applied chemists created a variety of distinctive, long lasting dyes. And finally, highly skilled spinners made a thread so consistent that even today’s most advanced machinery cannot duplicate it. The finished product symbolized the convergence of both the natural and human world—and for the elite wearer, it signified the ability to command these resources.