Fragment (Border) Possibly 1000 - 1476

This fragment of a textile border was made by the Chancay people of ancient Peru, probably sometime between 1000 and 1400 AD. Textiles were essential to Andean cultures. But this fragment also reflects the social conditions that shaped artistic production. The Chancay were adept at mass production. They developed a distinctive black-on-white style that enabled them to produce large quantities of ceramics and textiles for trade. This fragment is a sample of this artistic production. The geometric designs in the border showcase the artist’s technical skill and the cultural motifs prevalent at the time. Understanding this fragment involves not only admiring its aesthetic qualities but also researching the social and economic systems of the Chancay. By doing so, we can more fully appreciate the meaning and significance of this artifact.