Wrapper c. 20th century

This "Wrapper" was created by an anonymous artist. Garments such as this one made of indigenous cotton, woven on a backstrap loom and decorated with supplementary weft patterns reflect the cultural traditions of the indigenous Maya people. Textiles are a key part of Maya identity, often functioning as a potent symbol of cultural resistance. The colors and designs are not merely aesthetic choices; they embody deep historical and cultural meanings. Passed down through generations, the weaving techniques preserve ancestral knowledge. Wearing and using these textiles becomes a personal and political act. It is an assertion of Maya identity in a world that often seeks to erase or appropriate indigenous cultures. These textiles continue to be living, breathing testaments to the endurance, resilience, and creativity of the Maya people.