Woman's mantle (hañaca) c. 19th century

This is a woman’s mantle, or hañaca, woven by a Quechua artist. While we don’t have the exact date of its making, understanding its cultural context deepens our appreciation. The Quechua people, descendants of the Inca civilization, have a rich textile tradition deeply interwoven with their identity. Textiles like this mantle were not just clothing; they were signifiers of status, markers of ethnic identity, and embodiments of cultural memory. The creation of textiles was, and still is, largely women’s work, with skills passed down through generations. The simple geometric designs and the limited color palette, often derived from natural dyes, speak to a sophisticated understanding of aesthetics and a deep connection to the land. These textiles embody a complex interplay of tradition, resistance, and resilience. In a world that often seeks to erase indigenous cultures, objects like this mantle stand as powerful affirmations of identity and belonging.