Fragment (Tunic) Possibly 600 - 800

This tunic fragment was created by the Wari people, though we don't know exactly when. It’s made of intricately woven camelid fibers – likely alpaca or llama wool. The Wari were master weavers, and this fragment gives you a glimpse into their sophisticated textile production. The geometric patterns, with their interlocked shapes and stylized motifs, were painstakingly created on a loom. Each color would have been dyed using natural pigments. The scale and complexity of the weaving suggests a highly organized workshop system. Weaving of this quality would have been a specialized skill, and access to fine textiles like this was likely a sign of status and power. While this is only a fragment, it speaks to the artistry and labor involved in creating textiles that were not just beautiful, but also deeply meaningful within Wari society. It reminds us that cloth can be a potent form of communication and cultural expression, blurring the lines between art, craft, and social life.